Complex atoms in astrophysical spectra

We review the spectroscopic work on atomic lines and energy levels in neutral and singly and doubly ionized iron-group elements during the past 35 years. We have graded the completeness of the analysis of these spectra and compared them with the data included in the multiplet tables of Moore [ Natl. Bur. Stand. (U.S.) Circ.488 ( 1962);Natl. Stand. Ref. Data Ser. Natl. Bur. Stand.40 ( 1972)]. Specific comments are given on each spectrum. We discuss new demands for atomic data resulting from high-resolution spectroscopy of peculiar stars and observations from above the Earth’s atmosphere. The atomic data that have become available since Moore’s compilations are referred to here as second-generation spectra.