Using high spatial resolution and sensitivity of the Hubble Space Telescope and 8-10 m ground-based telescopes, we may study nearby circumstellar disks in detail. The observations elucidate disk geometries and dust composition and in an ensemble fashion teach us about the evolution of disks and the timescales for planet formation within them. In this talk, I will show imaging and spectroscopy of disks around stars which are all about 10 Myr old, yet which vary dramatically in physical size, morphology and composition. Even at this young age, planets may be modifying their envrionments. At older ages, the signature of terrestrial planet formation have been elusive, but I will discuss one remarkable 300 Myr old star.
Tuesday, January 31st
Seminar is to be held at 4:00 PM in the conference room
on the second floor of Dearborn Observatory
Refreshments will be served at 3:30
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