Near-infrared spectroscopy of starburst and interacting galaxies

Near-infrared spectroscopy has developed as a new branch of extragalactic astronomy over the past 4-5 years. Features due to atomic and molecular hydrogen, FeII, CO, and the unidentified 3.28μm dust feature are generally strong and detectable in galaxies using modern instrumentation. An overview of the results of the largely exploratory observations undertaken to date is presented. The major focus is to illustrate the potential of near-infrared spectroscopy to illuminate the physics and astrophysics of starbursts in galaxies. Some of the uncertainties, as well as the more firm conclusions are highlighted. Finally, it is suggested that the initial exploratory phase of extragalactic near-infrared spectroscopy is over, and the subject is sufficiently developed to take its place as part of the armamentarium of modern extragalactic astronomy