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NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2009B-0276 |
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PI: Matthew Richter, UC Davis, richter@physics.ucdavis.edu
Address: One Shields Ave., Davis, CA 95616, USA
CoI: Andrew Kruger, UC Davis
Title: Dust Emission in Edge-on Protoplanetary Disks
Abstract:
Edge-on protoplanetary disks represent the best opportunity to study the
chemical evolution in the inner disk regions around young stars. In this
specialized geometry, the line of sight can pass through large columns of gas
close to the star making molecular absorption spectroscopy possible (Lahuis
et al. 2006). While a powerful diagnostic tool, proper interpretation depends
on the background continuum. High spatial resolution imaging is the best way
of characterizing the dust component of disks. The images constrain global
properties such as disk inclination, size, and inner radius as well as grain
settling, growth, and temperature through modeling of the spectral energy
distribution, particularly when the images can spatially resolve the
emission. We propose to image two northern edge-on disk sources with Michelle
in multiple mid-IR bands. With these two sources, and with a T-ReCs night in
June, we will complete the high spatial resolution imaging of our seven
Spitzer Cycle 5 IRS program stars.
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 > 2009B-0276 |
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