NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2011A-0022
|
NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2011A-0022 |
|
PI: Andrej Pr\v sa, Villanova University, andrej.prsa@villanova.edu
Address: Astronomy Department, 800 E Lancaster Ave, Villanova, PA 19085, USA
CoI: Jerome A. Orosz, San Diego State University
CoI: Robert W. Slawson, SETI Institute
CoI: Heather Knutson, Berkeley University
CoI: Natalie Batalha, San Jose State University
CoI: Laurance R. Doyle, SETI Institute
CoI: William F. Welsh, San Diego State University
CoI: Joshua Pepper, Vanderbilt University
CoI: Jon M. Jenkins, SETI Institute
CoI: Daniel C. Fabrycky, University of California Santa Cruz
CoI: Scott Engle, Villanova University
CoI: Michael Rucker, San Jose State University
Title: Towards Unprecedented Accuracy of Fundamental Parameters for Kepler Eclipsing Binary Stars
Abstract: Eclipsing binary stars have played a paramount role in our understanding of stellar astrophysics - most of what we know about the T-R-L-M relationships comes from studying these systems. The Kepler mission set a new milestone by pushing photometric errors to sub- millimagnitude levels. This opens up a new opportunity to study these \emphcontinuously observed binaries: 1) find and analyze well-detached systems that serve as ideal calibrators for stars across the H-R diagram; 2) resolve the discrepancy between observations and theory on the low-mass end of the main sequence; 3) use total eclipses to derive parameters to unprecedented accuracy; 4) study intrinsic variables and chromospherically active components, and 5) explore system dynamics on a long time scale without missing a beat, thus detecting eclipse timing variations that are indicative of tertiary components. We request 10 nights/year (7 in Spring, 3 in Fall) for 3 years. We aim to observe, reduce and fully analyze ~ 150 eclipsing binaries that have been prioritized from a list of 1879 targets in the Kepler field. We focus on systems with the greatest promise of significant scientific advancement.
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 > 2011A-0022 |
|