Working Group 5: Molecular Spectra

Abstract

Molecular spectroscopic activity, and its literature, has continued to proliferate strongly during the reporting period. There has been much work over the entire wavelength range: microwave - extreme ultraviolet. The impact of the methods of laser spectroscopy on the field, and developments in molecular lasers have continued to provide a great stimulus to molecular spectroscopic research. There has also been increasing recognition of the need for fundamental spectroscopic data of all kinds in astrophysical, atmospheric and enviromental research applications. The scope of contemporary interests is displayed in the programme books for the symposia on Molecular Spectroscopy held annually at the Ohio State University. For the past three years the literature of the molecular spectroscopy has been so prolific that it is impossible to make a definitive review even of the astrophysically important contributions beyond brief citations. Important trends are indicated below. Literature citations have been principally compiled from the reports received from individual workers in Centres of Research on molecular spectra.