NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2011A-0448
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NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2011A-0448 |
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PI: Brad N. Barlow, University of North Carolina, bbarlow@physics.unc.edu
Address: Department of Physics & Astronomy, CB 3255, Phillips Hall, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-3255, USA
CoI: Stephan Geier, Dr. Remeis-Sternwarte, U. Erlangen-Nurnberg
CoI: Uli Heber, Dr. Remeis-Sternwarte, U. Erlangen-Nurnberg
CoI: Thomas Kupfer, Dr. Remeis-Sternwarte, U. Erlangen-Nurnberg
CoI: Lew Classen, Dr. Remeis-Sternwarte, U. Erlangen-Nurnberg
Title: The MUCHFUSS project -- Searching for the most massive companions to hot subdwarf stars
Abstract:
Hot subdwarf B (sdB) stars with massive unseen companions, either
massive white dwarfs, neutron stars, or black holes, are predicted by
evolutionary theory and are starting to be uncovered observationally.
Such systems are potential progenitors of Type Ia supernovae and even
gamma-ray bursts without associated supernovae. Using the SDSS to
search for sdB stars showing high radial and Galactic rest-frame
velocities, we have discovered nearly 170 subdwarfs with velocities
indicative of binary companions. We began a follow-up campaign in 2009
to solve for the orbital parameters of these systems and have solidified
nine solutions to date. Characterizing the nature of these systems is
important for understanding the formation channels leading to sdB stars
and their role in forming Type Ia supernova and gamma-ray bursts. Here
we propose follow-up spectroscopic observations of those candidates most
likely to host massive companions with the goal of obtaining orbital
solutions for at least 20 targets.
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 > 2011A-0448 |
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