Abstract
Classification of the spectra of highly ionized atoms is reviewed for the period 1980-1983, thereby extending two previous reviews covering 1974-1980 [B. C. Fawcett, Phys. Scr. 24, 663 (1981)] and pre-1980 [B. C. Fawcett, Adv. At. Mol. Phys. 10, 223 (1974)]. A brief historical introduction outlines the renaissance of atomic spectroscopy, which was stimulated by space and fusion research. Relevant events in span science are summarized. A comprehensive bibliography is included.