High-resolution far-infrared observations and models of the star formation core of G34.3+0.2C

High spatial resolution far-infrared (FIR) maps made on the Kuiper Airborne Observatory are presented of the extremely bright source associated with the "cometary'' ultracompact H II region G34.3+0.2C. The maps show sharply peaked emission at G34.3+0.2C, surrounded by extended emission of uniform temperature. Maximum entropy method deconvolutions indicate FIR core source sizes of 12" and 20" at 47 and 95 mum, respectively. Radiative transfer models of centrally heated dust cloud cores are presented that match estimates of the FIR core emission at G34.3+0.2C. The FIR data and models imply that this emission is due to a compact, centrally peaked, massive core separate from the hot molecular core 2" east of G34.3+0.2C. In comparison to the hot molecular core, the FIR core represents a separate, more evolved core that contains a group of high-mass stars and protostars.