High-Resolution Mid-Infrared Observations of High Mass Protostellar Objects

Abstract

This article presents a review of all high-resolution ground-based mid-infrared observations of high mass protostellar objects (HMPOs) to date. An introduction to the characteristics of HMPOs and their relationship to the hot molecular core phase of massive star formation is outlined. I explain why observations in the mid-infrared of these types of sources are important, and in particular why high-resolution observations are needed. A summary is given of the earliest mid-infrared detections of HMPOs, followed by a detailed account of the most recent observations.