Using Methanol Masers to Probe High Mass Star Forming Regions

Authors

Naomi S. Shechter, DePaul University, ChicagoFollow
Anuj P. Sarma, DePaul University, ChicagoFollow

Faculty Advisor

Dr. Anuj Sarma

Abstract

Compared to low mass stars, the formation of high mass stars is not well understood. To understand better how high mass stars form, we can utilize masers, naturally amplified point sources of microwave radiation. One example is the methanol maser, which falls into two categories. Class I methanol masers form in the bipolar outflows from the protostar, and Class II masers form in the accretion disk. Their compact size and intensity make them an excellent source of information about the process of high mass star formation. We compiled a modest database of Class I and II methanol masers through a literature search to investigate the morphology of methanol masers in star forming regions and measure the distances of these masers from potentially associated infrared sources.

Recommended Citation

Shechter, Naomi S. and Sarma, Anuj P. (2021) "Using Methanol Masers to Probe High Mass Star Forming Regions," DePaul Discoveries: Volume 10, Article 15.
Available at: https://via.library.depaul.edu/depaul-disc/vol10/iss1/15