High resolution solar spectra obtained from the ATMOS Fourier Transform Spectrometer (Spacelab 3 flight on April 29-May 6, 1985) have made it possible to identify and measure a large number of... Show moreHigh resolution solar spectra obtained from the ATMOS Fourier Transform Spectrometer (Spacelab 3 flight on April 29-May 6, 1985) have made it possible to identify and measure a large number of lines of the vibration-rotation fundamental bands of the X2 Pi state of CH. From about 100 lines of the 1-0, 2-1, and 3-2 bands and adopting theoretical transition probabilities, a solar carbon abundance of 8.60 + or - 0.05 is derived. This value is compared with new results inferred from other carbon abundance indicators. The final recommended solar abundance of carbon is 8.60 + or - 0.05. Show less
Interstellar absorption lines of CH and CH(+) have been detected toward the star HD 210121, which is located behind a previously unknown high-latitude cloud. The CH observations and the measured... Show moreInterstellar absorption lines of CH and CH(+) have been detected toward the star HD 210121, which is located behind a previously unknown high-latitude cloud. The CH observations and the measured extinction toward the star provide independent measures of the H2 column density along the line of sight, which are compared with that deduced from CO mm observations. The inferred CH(+) column density is comparatively small, suggesting that shocks do not play a dominant role in the chemistry in the cloud. Show less
