PySME documentation#
Version: 1.0.1
More than two decades ago Valenti & Piskunov (1996) developed SME - Spectroscopy Made Easy, a high-precision stellar-spectra synthesis/analysis engine that has powered hundreds of studies. PySME is its modern Python front-end: a wrapper around the original C++/Fortran core that lets you (1) compute accurate, high-resolution synthetic spectra from a linelist + model atmosphere, (2) invert observed spectra to derive stellar parameters, and (3) explore NLTE corrections — all from an interactive notebook or scripted pipeline. The same capabilities make PySME invaluable for exoplanet work, where characterising the host star is essential for understanding its planets.
Key features
Plane-parallel and spherical radiative-transfer engine
LTE & 1-D NLTE line formation with pre-computed grids
Automatic \(\chi^2\) fitting for \(T_\mathrm{eff}\), \(\log{g}\), \(v_\mathrm{mic}\), [X/Fe] …
Seamless use of ATLAS and MARCS model atmospheres and VALD line lists
Installation
Set up PySME and verify your code before synthesizing.
Go to installationGetting started
Run the first spectrum and first fit with a minimal, beginner-friendly path.
Open getting startedAdvanced usage
Learn core usage and structure details for deeper and more controlled use.
To advanced usageCitation#
Jian et al. (2026; in prep.)
Indices and tables#
Quick links
- GitHub repository:
- Issue tracker: