The infrared flux method for determining stellar angular diameters and effective temperatures

Abstract

The infrared flux method for deriving stellar angular diameters and effective temperatures (Blackwell & Shallis) is elaborated and assessed in relation to the use of the intensity interferometer. Infrared magnitudes of 17 stars obtained using the Tenerife flux collector are presented and angular diameters and effective temperatures for 13 of these stars are derived using the method. A discrepancy exists between infrared photometry and the predictions of model atmosphere theory, which is probably the result of flux calibration errors. It is suggested that given a good flux calibration, the infrared flux method is capable of greater accuracy than the intensity interferometer, besides being more versatile.