The New Standard Stellar Population Models (NSSPM) -- The Prologue

Abstract

We are developing a brand new stellar population models with flexible chemistry (isochrones plus stellar colors and spectra) in order to set a new standard of completeness and excellence. Here we present preliminary results to assess the effects of stellar evolution models and stellar model atmosphere to the well-known Lick indices at constant heavy element mass fraction Z that self-consistently account for varying heavy element mixtures. We have enhanced chemical elements one by one. Our ultimate goal is to demonstrate 10% absolute mean ages for a sample of local galaxies derived from an integrated light spectrum.

To appear in the proceedings for IAU symposium 241. "Stellar Populations as Building Blocks of Galaxies", Editors: R.F. Peletier, A. Vazdekis