Future Science Directions in the Study of Circumstellar Disks
First Author:
Ewine F. van Dishoeck
Email: ewine AT strw.leidenuniv.nl
Leiden Observatory
Niels Bohr weg 2
Leiden ZH 2300 RA The Netherlands
Abstract
Spitzer has hugely contributed to our understanding of disk structure, composition and evolution, from the youngest deeply embedded stages to the oldest debris disk phase. Thanks to its large and in many cases unbiased surveys, (nearly) complete samples of disks in different environments (different clouds, stellar mass, ...) and ages have been defined. These sample will form the input for many follow-up studies with future facilities, at higher spatial and/or spectral resolution. Key questions raised by Spitzer will be discussed in the context of future facilities, in particular the Herschel Space Observatory, JWST, ALMA and ELTs. Complementary theory and laboratory data will continue to be crucial to analyze the data and understand the steps leading to new planetary systems.
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