ISMBänder

ISMBänder, also known as Interstellar Medium Bands, are observed spectral features in the light from distant stars that indicate the presence of specific molecules within the interstellar medium. These bands are not caused by the star itself but rather by the absorption or emission of light by gases and dust located in the vast spaces between stars. When starlight passes through these clouds, certain wavelengths are absorbed or emitted, creating characteristic patterns in the star's spectrum that astronomers can detect.

The study of ISMBänder is crucial for understanding the chemical composition and physical conditions of the interstellar medium. By analyzing the wavelengths and intensities of these bands, scientists can identify the types of molecules present, their abundance, and their temperature. This information provides insights into the processes of star formation and the evolution of galaxies, as the interstellar medium is the raw material from which stars and planets are born. Common molecules identified through ISMBänder include diatomic molecules like carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen (H2), as well as more complex organic molecules. Observing these bands across different regions of space allows astronomers to map out the distribution of these molecules and study their role in various astrophysical phenomena.