Atomic and Molecular Data Services for Astrophysics

Astronomers observe light from deep space. The interpretation of these signals requires a deep understanding of the physical processes involved in generating them. This can only be achieved through systematic study of the underlying process in the laboratory. Laboratory data is therefore an essential component in any successful astronomical campaign. Recently a European initiative, the Virtual Atomic and Molecular Data Centre (VAMDC), has attempted to link all they key databases in the atomic and molecular physics area, and to make the fully interoperable through the development of dedicated software. The VAMDC portal now provides access to about 30 distinct databases, including UK based one such as UDfA and Chianti, which cover the key atomic and molecular processes required for astrophysics. The present project will improve the quality and accessibility of these data both by direct improvement tof VAMDC protocols and services, and by improving the services provided by UK-based databases which link to VAMDC.

Good data is vital for the interpretation of astronomical observations. The main impact of the present proposal will on the astronomy community who will have improved access to high(er) quality atomic and molecular data for there studies. This work is important for leveraging otherwise very expensive observational work.

Atomic and molecular data is important for many areas of both science and technology. The work on the Virtual Atomic and Molecular Data Centre (VAMDC) has been performed, and will continue to be performed, in close collaboration with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) who are responsible for provision and curation of data for fusion programs. The data is also important for a variety of industrial application including the development of gas sensors, technological plasmas and lighting.