NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2006B-0373
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NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2006B-0373 |
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PI: Massimo Robberto, Space Telescope Science Institute, robberto@stsci.edu
Address: 3700 Space Telescope Science Institute, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
CoI: Kester Smith, Space Telescope Science Institute
CoI: John Mackenty, Space Telescope Science Institute
CoI: Michael R. Meyer, Steward Observatory
Title: IRMOS Spectroscopy of the Orion Nebula Cluster
Abstract:
We propose to use IRMOS to perform an infrared spectroscopic survey
of the Orion Nebula Cluster (ONC). We will target Pre-Main Sequence
(PMS) objects too red to have their spectra taken at shorter
wavelengths. At the same time, the multi-object capability of IRMOS
will allow us to classify hundreds of PMS objects across the full range
of stellar masses. This survey ideally complements the HST Treasury
Program on the ONC we have recently completed. Coupling the exquisite
accuracy of the optical and near-IR HST photometry with the IRMOS
spectral classifications, we will build the most accurate HR diagram
ever made for the low-mass end of the PMS. This will allow us to attack
fundamental questions of star formation from a firm, quantitative
assessment of the physical parameters of each stellar source, e.g.
luminosity, mass, age, accretion rates. We will analyse the star
formation history of the cluster (age and age-spread vs. position) and
the structure and variation of the IMF. Probing into the brown-dwarfs
regime, we will classify low luminosity sources spread across the Great
Orion Nebula while confirming their actual membership. The survey will
also provide a unique dataset for studying the structure and evolution
of the inner disks around hundreds of nearly coeval stars of different
mass. This study is timely and highly needed, considering the amount of
observing time recently dedicated to the ONC by several facilities,
including HST, Spitzer and Chandra, and the general need for accurate
spectral classification of PMS in Orion.
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 > 2006B-0373 |
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