G. T. Ruch, T. J. Jones, C. E. Woodward, E. Polomski, R. D. Gehrz (University of Minnesota), S. T. Megeath (Harvard Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics)
Infrared studies of regions of star formation using the Spitzer Space Telescope offer a unique opportunity to probe embedded stellar populations to unprecedented sensitivity. We present Spitzer Space Telescope IRAC and MIPS observations of a 45x30 arcminute field of view centered on the young star forming region W3 with a limiting magnitude of approximately 17 in IRAC channel 1. Combining 2MASS photometry with IRAC and MIPS photometry, we construct SEDs, color/color, and color magnitude diagrams that are then used to classify the stellar population. We then present a statistical analysis and determine the mass and luminosity distribution of stellar and substellar objects within the cloud.
Support for this work is in part provided by NASA through contracts 1256406 and 1215746 issued by JPL/Caltech to the University of Minnesota
Bulletin of the American Astronomical Society, 37 #2
© 2005. The American Astronomical Soceity.