Spectra and Photometry of Be Stars: (Review Paper)

Abstract

My task is to review the spectroscopy and photometry of Be stars. In the wide range of topics this covers, I will naturally be biased by my own interests and knowledge. I hope however at least to mention all forms of observed behaviour within these limitations, but note that as we have specific sessions on energy distributions, rotation, observations at unusual wavelengths (i.e., not from 3500 to 6700 Å), and polarisation, I shall deal less thoroughly, if at all, with these topics. I shall also attempt to incorporate the results of the speakers who follow in this session, in order to save duplication of individual introductions and allow the later presentations to concentrate more on the relevant discussions. I shall deal with nine aspects of Be stars behaviour, under the headings below.