NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2001B-0374
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NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2001B-0374 |
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PI: Mark E. Huber, Planetary Science Institute and Univ. of Wyoming, mhuber@psi.edu
Address: Tucson, AZ 85705, USA
CoI: Steve B. Howell, Astrophysics Group, Planetary Science Institute
Title: Spectroscopy of Low-luminosity Cataclysmic Variables from the Faint Sky Variability Survey
Abstract: Current population synthesis models for Cataclysmic Variables predict that the majority of systems will be of a highly evolved state, composed of a white dwarf primary, brown dwarf-like secondary, and optically thin accretion disk (in non-magnetic systems). Contrary to population synthesis results, only a handful of intrinsically faint CVs are found. With such a small sample, conclusions are uncertain as to what inputs to the population synthesis models is incorrect or whether there exists an observational bias for finding intrinsically brighter sources. We propose a program for WIYN/HYDRA spectroscopy to identify and study an under-sampled population of cataclysmic variables that will test the current theory of the evolution of interacting binaries by providing a statistical sample to study and place limits on their astrophysical properties. The scientific goal requires deep observations to V~20 over a large projected area on the sky, perfectly matched with the designs of the Faint Sky Variability Survey from which our candidate sources will be selected for follow-up spectroscopic study proposed using the WIYN/HYDRA instrument.
National Optical Astronomy Observatory, 950 North Cherry Avenue, P.O. Box 26732, Tucson, Arizona 85726, Phone: (520) 318-8000, Fax: (520) 318-8360
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NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2001B-0374 |
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