This grant supports the research of a group of scientists at the University of Texas with the common theme of star formation in molecular clouds. Drs. Frank Bash, John Davis, Neal Evans, and Daniel Jaffe use a variety of observational techniques, ranging from optical imaging to radio wavelength aperture synthesis, but the primary focus is on submillimeter wave observations at the CalTech Submillimeter Observatory in Hawaii. This group studies star formation in external galaxies, in giant molecular clouds in our Galaxy, and in nearby molecular clouds which are forming low mass stars. The observations are used to answer general questions about the forces which control star formation, exploring in particular the role of spiral density waves and already formed stars in stimulating or preventing further star formation. Examination of the physical conditions in star forming regions in our Galaxy can elucidate those conditions and processes which favor star formation at a level of detail not possible when observing other galaxies. Comparison of regions forming stars of very different masses can lead to a better understanding of what determines the initial mass function. On the other hand, studies of other galaxies can more easily assess the role of stimulated star formation, especially in ring galaxies and in galaxies with strong spiral density waves. The research of Dr. Bash and his colleagues concerns the overall environment of star forming clouds both in our Galaxy and in external galaxies.
