Using the (VLA) Very Large Array, the astronomers at Northwestern University have obtained radio observations of the galactic center region and prominent galactic HII regions that constitute some of the largest continuum and spectral line data bases in radio astronomy. A large amount of optical spectroscopic data has also been acquired in the application of high signal-to-noise techniques for the study of interstellar and Quasi-Stellar Object (QSO) absorption lines. The image processing tasks required for the optimum reduction and analysis of these enormous data sets make the ready availability of substantial computer capabilities essential. This award will provide support for the acquisition of a mini- supercomputer (IBM RS/6000 powerserver 540) and its peripherals so that mosiac images of some of the most complex regions of the galaxy can be made and numerous other research projects currently being carried out by the PIs be facilitated. Northwestern University has already contributed over $130,000 in purchasing computer equipment for the PIs and will contribute another $47,000 to this facility.
