NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2008B-0224
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NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2008B-0224 |
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PI: Robert T. Zavala Jr., U.S. Naval Observatory, bzavala@nofs.navy.mil
Address: Flagstaff Station, 10391 W Naval Observatory Rd., Flagstaff, AZ 86001, USA
CoI: Alison Peck, ALMA
CoI: Lindsey Pollack, US Santa Cruz
CoI: Cristina Rodriguez, University of New Mexico
CoI: Roger Romani, Stanford University
CoI: Gregory Taylor, University of New Mexico
Title: Completing the picture: Deep imaging of the host galaxy of the closest pair of binary black holes
Abstract:
Using the VLBA, we have identified the radio galaxy 0402+379 as the
host of a pair of binary black holes separated by a projected distance
of just 7 parsecs. This makes 0402+379 the only black hole pair close
to the stage when gravitational radiation may be emitted. We have
developed a detailed picture of the source using radio observations, HET
spectra and archival ROSAT observations. Our present analysis is
hampered by the lack of a high resolution optical image. We propose a
one night observation of 0402+379, using WIYN and its superb seeing, to
produce high resolution, multi-color broad and narrow band images of
0402+379. Our two primary goals are to identify the nature of the host
galaxy and whether a nearby companion galaxy is interacting with
0402+379. With a modest allocation of WIYN time we can approximately
date the merger that produced the binary BH. This proposal was awarded
time in 2007B. However, poor weather during that run brings us back in
2008B.
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 > 2008B-0224 |
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