NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2010A-0359
|
NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2010A-0359 |
|
PI: Karl Stapelfeldt, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, krs@exoplanet.jpl.nasa.gov
Address: California Institute of Technology, 4800 Oak Grove, Drive Pasadena, CA 91109, USA
CoI: Dimitri Mawet, Jet Propulsion Laboratory
CoI: Peter Plavchan, IPAC / Caltech
CoI: David Koerner, Northern Arizona University
Title: Coronagraphic Imaging Survey of a New Spitzer Debris Disk Sample
Abstract:
Debris disks are the signposts of planetary systems: collisions among
asteroidal and cometary parent bodies maintain the observed dust population
against losses to radiation pressure and P-R drag. Since dust production is
enhanced by gravitational stirring, debris disks systems are natural targets
for imaging searches for giant planet and brown dwarf companions. Both stars
with extrasolar planets directly imaged in 2008, Fomalhaut and HR 8799, host
prominent debris disk systems. During its cryogenic mission, we have used the
Spitzer Space Telescope to survey hundreds of nearby stars for far-infrared
excess indicative of debris dust. As of 2009 this work has now completed, and
our group has submitted two papers presenting the last significant sample of
new, nearby debris disks found with Spitzer. We propose NICI coronagraphic
imaging of 16 stars from these lists that are observable from Gemini S in
2010A. Our goal is to discover or place limits on substellar companions that
could be stirring or sculpting these disks. Imaging detection of the disks
themselves is possible for a subset of our targets if the disks are presented
edge-on or are radially confined to narrow rings. The results will provide
the first imaging characterization of these new, nearby planetary systems.
National Optical Astronomy Observatory, 950 North Cherry Avenue, P.O. Box 26732, Tucson, Arizona 85726, Phone: (520) 318-8000, Fax: (520) 318-8360
|
NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2010A-0359 |
|