The Galactic Bar
arXiv:astro-ph/9710361
Abstract
We summarize recent work on the structure and dynamics of the Galactic bar and inner disk. Current work focusses on constructing a quantitative model which integrates NIR photometry, source count observations, gas kinematics, stellar dynamical observations, and microlensing. Some avenues for future research are discussed.
7 pages, LaTeX, 4 figures. To appear in the Proceedings of Joint Discussion 15, 23rd IAU General Assembly, Highlights of Astronomy Vol.11, ed. J. Andersen. Also available at http://www.astro.unibas.ch/~gerhard/papers/kyoto_jd15.ps.gz