NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2002B-0071
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NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2002B-0071 |
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PI: Adolf N. Witt, University of Toledo, awitt@dusty.astro.utoledo.edu
Address: MS 113, Toledo, OH 43606, USA
CoI: Uma P. Vijh, University of Toledo
Title: Spectroscopy of Photoluminescence Emission by Interstellar Nanoparticles
Abstract:
Interstellar grains are known to be the sources of photoluminescence
(PL) radiation, which is excited by absorbed UV photons. Previous
investigations of this phenomenon have focused upon PL in the red part
(540 - 950 nm) of the spectrum, known as extended red emission (ERE).
Current models attribute the ERE to nanometer-sized particles such as
silicon nanoparticles, hydrocarbon nanoparticles, or large PAH
molecules. Each of these models also predict the presence of model-
specific PL at still shorter wavelengths, in particular in the 300 - 450
nm range. Our project is designed to undertake a sensitive search for
the predicted UV PL in reflection nebulae, where the presence of ERE has
been established by earlier observations. If such PL is found in the
UV, we expect to determine its spectral characteristics, its spatial
distribution and its relation to the already known ERE. In addition, we
plan to map the shift in the ERE peak wavelength as a function of
position within these nebulae in order to investigate the expected
relationship between particle sizes and the wavelengths of their
characteristic emissions. This work will be another step in the long
struggle to understand the nature of interstellar dust grains.
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 > 2002B-0071 |
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