The physical properties of red supergiants

P. Massey, Lowell Observatory
B. Plez, Laboratoire Univers et Particules de Montpellier
E. M. Levesque, University Hawaii Institute for Astronomy
K. A.G. Olsen, Cerro Tololo Inter American Observatory
D. R. Silva, Thirty Meter Telescope Project
G. C. Clayton, Louisiana State University

Abstract

The "observed" location of red supergiants in the HRD has been at variance with the evolutionary tracks for many years, but the new generation of MARCS stellar atmosphere models has led to improved determinations of their physical properties, and much better agreement with stellar evolutionary theory. We briefly summarize our findings. © 2008: Instituto de Astronomía.