Numerical radiative transfer with state-of-the-art iterative methods made easy

TL;DR

This paper introduces an online tool and software resources that simplify the implementation of advanced iterative methods for solving non-LTE radiative transfer problems, making them more accessible for educational purposes.

Contribution

It provides an accessible online platform and software for applying state-of-the-art iterative methods to non-LTE radiative transfer, supporting education and research.

Findings

Demonstrates the effectiveness of Accelerated Lambda-Iteration and Gauss-Seidel schemes.

Provides numerical experiments illustrating typical non-LTE radiation transfer problems.

Offers resources aimed at educational use in Master-level courses.

Abstract

This article presents an on-line tool (rttools.irap.omp.eu) and its accompanying software ressources for the numerical solution of basic radiation transfer out of local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE). State-of-the-art stationary iterative methods such as Accelerated $\Lambda$-Iteration and Gauss-Seidel schemes, using a short characteristics-based formal solver are used. We also comment on typical numerical experiments associated to the basic non-LTE radiation problem. These ressources are intended for the largest use and benefit, in support to more classical radiation transfer lectures usually given at the Master level.