An Independent View?

Abstract

The current dispute over the oxygen abundance in metal-poor stars has been viewed from a distance by this observer who would claim a measure of independence despite an intermittent interest in ox-gen abundance determinations over 3 decades. This summary attempts to persuade all participants whether they advocate a ‘high’ or ‘low’ oxygen abundance or are simply bemused by the dispute that in resolving the present disagreements we shall learn not only about the oxygen abundance of these oldest Galactic stars but shall achieve a deeper understanding of the atmospheres of the stars.