Using Interferometry to Model the Winds in Red Supergiants

Watch an astronomy lecture exploring innovative methods for studying red supergiant stars through interferometry. Learn about a groundbreaking approach to understanding the extended atmospheres and mass loss processes of these evolved massive stars using the MARCS atmospheric model combined with wind effects. Discover how this methodology accurately reproduces observations from the Very Large Telescope Interferometer's GRAVITY and MATISSE instruments across wavelengths of 1.8-5.0 μm for multiple red supergiants including AH Sco, KW Sgr, V602 Car, CK Car and V460 Car. Gain insights into one of the most comprehensive spectro-interferometrical studies of red supergiants to date, contributing to our understanding of these important cosmic matter cycle contributors that enrich the universe with newly formed elements before ending as core-collapse supernovae.