In article ,
David Findlay writes:
Are star spectra relatively unique? Could you use them to positively
identify a star if you knew what area of the galaxy you were in? Thanks,

At ordinary classification resolution, certainly not, as Mike has
explained. At very high spectral resolution and very high signal to
noise, perhaps. I doubt enough such spectra have ever been collected
to know, but it wouldn't surprise me if apparently similar stars
would turn out to have subtle differences if you look hard.

As Mike also said, though, the difference between "pole on" and
"equator on" for a given star might well be larger than the
differences between stars.

--
Steve Willner Phone 617-495-7123
Cambridge, MA 02138 USA
(Please email your reply if you want to be sure I see it; include a
valid Reply-To address to receive an acknowledgement. Commercial
email may be sent to your ISP.)