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The MKK and Revised MK Atlas

The MKK and Revised MK Atlases are fundamental references for the MK system of spectral classification of normal stars.

The online-versions of the MKK and the Revised MK Atlas were produced by Dr M. M. Dworetsky and W. R. Reece at the University of London Observatory, University College London, with permission from the copyright holders, The University of Chicago Press and from Dr H A Abt (co-author of the Revised Atlas).

The MKK Atlas

Since its publication in 1943, the MKK Atlas has been the fundamental reference for the MK system of spectral classification of normal stars. The original Atlas was distributed as a series of 55 photographic plates showing standard spectra for each class with accompanying hand–written notes. There is also a booklet giving in–depth notes on the process of classification and the features by which luminosity and temperature class are determined. As this Atlas is both rare and delicate, digital copies of both the plates and the booklet are here made available to the astronomical community.

 

The MKK Atlas

 

The Revised MK Atlas

Since its publication in 1943, the MKK Atlas has been the fundamental reference for the MK system of spectral classification of normal stars. In 1978, an update, for stars earlier than the Sun, was published in response to improved classification and observational techniques. This revised Atlas was distributed as a series of 32 photographic plates showing standard spectra for each class with accompanying notes. There is also a booklet giving some commentary on the MK system. As this Atlas is both rare and delicate, digital copies of both the plates and the booklet are here made available to the astronomical community.

 

The Revised MKK Atlas