HERBIG-AE BE STARS

Herbig Ae/Be stars are the higher mass counterparts of the T Tauri sta rs. In comparison with the latter, however, relatively little is known about them. After a historical introduction, we briefly review their optical and UV spectroscopic properties. We consider the evidence for and against disks around Herbig Ae/Be stars; the existence of which re mains highly controversial. We also examine in-depth their interaction with the surrounding medium as manifested through optical outflows. I t is shown that although there are similarities with analogous outflow s from lower mass young stars, those from Herbig Ae/Be stars may be mo re poorly collimated. Jets, however, are found in at least some cases.