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FIGURE 5‐9 The richness of the submillimeter spectrum for probing molecular chemistry in
regions where stars are born, illustrated with SMA data. Notice the number of lines which are
presently unidentified ("U"). The promise of SMA, ALMA, and CCAT will be enhanced with
additional laboratory astrophysics work. (Credit: C. L. Brogan et al., 2009, ApJ, 707, 1.)
and precision, laboratory astrophysics plays an increasingly important role in the interpretation of data. At
the same time, support for laboratory astrophysics has eroded, and a more robust system of funding to
support personnel, equipment, and databases is needed to ensure efficient use of and interpretation of
hard-won astronomical data.
The traditional needs in astronomy have been for atomic and molecular transition data for use in
understanding spectra at wavelengths ranging from radio through X-ray wavelengths and for nuclear
interaction cross sections. These topics were also at the forefront of research in their respective areas of
physics with the generation of such data heavily supported by NSF/PHY and DOE. There have always
been some efforts focused entirely on astrophysics, but the bulk of the data came “for free” from the
physics community and especially the National Laboratories. The frontiers of physics have moved on,
particularly in the field of Atomic, Molecular and Optical science, and there is now little work of this type
within physics departments. At the same time, astronomy’s needs have expanded due to the progression
into new wavelength regimes and rapid increase in measurement capabilities. For example, precision
experiments on magnetized plasmas under astrophysical conditions are now available, as are high-energydensity
experiments that make use of giant lasers and magnetic pinches to create relevant conditions for
heating and shock propagation. In addition, it is possible to use these experiments to advance our
understanding of magnetic reconnection which is of vital importance on solar physics. The combination
of these factors leads to a need for an increase in the level of support from astrophysics for laboratory
astrophysics.
There is also an increased interest in “non-traditional” areas of laboratory astrophysics such as
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