Chris Martin (Oberlin College) : Looking at the dynamics of the inner Galaxy with Herschel - HIGGS: The Herschel Inner Galaxy Gas Survey

The Herschel Inner Galaxy Gas Survey (HIGGS) is a Herschel Space Observatory Key Project to use the HIFI and PACS instruments to observe [CII], [NII], [OI], [OIII], and high-J CO emission lines in focused regions near the Galactic Center. By separating and evaluating the distinctly different roles of the central nuclear engine, the Galactic Bar, and dynamical stellar and interstellar feedback mechanisms, HIGGS is providing a high-resolution template for the physical processes in galactic nuclei throughout the local universe, in particular those engaged in starburst activity. While our Herschel data is only just now starting to pour in, I'll be able to share some early results along with the ground based ancillary observations that are assisting us in unraveling the complexities of the inner Milky Way.