Stellar Spectroscopy, Molecular Astronomy and Atomic Astronomy

Dear Colleagues,

In the current era of Gaia, large-scale spectroscopic surveys such as Gaia-ESO, APOGEE, GALAH, and LAMOST have collected millions of stellar spectra with varying resolutions and signal-to-noise ratios. This wealth of data represents the most extensive repository of kinematic and chemical information about stars within the Milky Way. The confluence of comprehensive spectral analysis techniques, including line-by-line differential analysis, coupled with advancements in modeling stellar atmospheres and the determination of accurate molecular and atomic line data, has propelled cutting-edge research in both theoretical and observational astrophysics—from the study of our galaxy to the study of exoplanets. The primary objective of this Special Issue is to establish a comprehensive platform for the exploration of novel ideas and the in-depth discussion of a diverse array of pertinent topics within the realms of stellar spectroscopy, molecular astronomy, and atomic astronomy. By facilitating the convergence of contributions from researchers and experts across the globe in these interconnected disciplines, this Special Issue aims to nurture collaboration and propel the collective advancement of knowledge in the dynamic fields of stellar spectroscopy, molecular astronomy, and atomic astronomy.

Suggested topics:

1. Large Spectroscopic Surveys in the Gaia Era:

• Exploring the impact of Gaia and other large-scale surveys on our understanding of the Milky Way's stellar populations, kinematics, and chemical properties.

2. Advances in High-Resolution Stellar Spectroscopy:

• Investigating the latest techniques and breakthroughs in high-resolution spectroscopy to unravel the intricate details of stellar atmospheres, compositions, and physical properties.

3. Stellar Atmospheres and Abundances:

• Delving into the complexities of stellar atmospheres and the determination of elemental abundances, and connecting observational data with theoretical models.

4. Galactic Chemical Evolution:

• Examining the chemical evolution of the Milky Way and other galaxies, and considering the role of stars in shaping the composition of the interstellar medium over cosmic time.

5. Stellar Nucleosynthesis and Element Abundances:

• Unraveling the processes responsible for stellar nucleosynthesis and their implications for the elemental abundances observed in stars.

6. Innovations in Observational Instruments and Spectroscopic Techniques:

• Reviewing the latest advancements in observational tools and spectroscopic methodologies, with a focus on how these technologies enhance our ability to explore the cosmos.

7. Interstellar Molecules and Star Formation:

• Investigating the molecular composition of interstellar environments and its role in the formation of stars and planetary systems.

8. Chemical Connections Between Stars and Their Planets:

• Examining the chemical relationships between stars and their planetary systems, and shedding light on the origins and diversity of planetary compositions.

9. Transmission Spectra of Planetary Atmospheres:

• Exploring the observational techniques and analyses of transmission spectra to gain insights into the atmospheres of exoplanets and their distinctive features.

10. Biosignatures of Planets—Formation and Beyond:

• Investigating the potential biosignatures associated with planetary formation processes and considering their relevance in the search for life beyond our solar system.

11. Atomic Transitions and Spectral Line Formation:

• Examining the fundamental atomic processes that govern spectral line formation, and influencing the observed features in stellar spectra.

12. Theoretical Developments Supporting Observational Efforts:

• Assessing theoretical advancements that play a crucial role in supporting and interpreting observational data, and bridging the gap between theory and empirical insights in astrophysics.

Dr. Fan Liu
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Galaxies is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

• stellar spectroscopy
• stars and planetary systems
• Galactic chemical evolution
• atmospheres of stars
• elemental abundances of stars
• interstellar medium