The Circumnuclear Starburst in M83

We present results from near-infrared integral-field spectroscopy of the circumnuclear starburst in M83, using the CIRPASS instrument on Gemini South. The combination of Pa, CO (6,3), and [Fe II] equivalent width measurements over large contiguous regions allows us to track the spatial propagation of star formation across the ringlet, which is too heavily obscured to be properly analysed at optical wavelengths. We find the clearest evidence yet for an age gradient, with the youngest clusters found closest to where the dust lane crosses the ringlet. We discuss the implications for gas fueling by the bar.