Atomic Spectra in the Atmosphere of Dense Stars

Abstract

The intense field atomic physics problem is briefly reviewed, in particular those aspects of it which are of astrophysical interest. Theoretical predictions of the spectral features and the polarization in the continum spectra are discussed from the point of view of measuring static magnetic fields in the atmosphere of white dwarfts. Atomic structure relevant to the study of the atmosphere and surface properties of compact objects such as pulsars, neutron stars and black holes are reviewed. This predicts the unusual surface and atmospheric properties for these objects. Some of the unsolved problems are indicated.