NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2011B-0114
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NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2011B-0114 |
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PI: William Herbst, Wesleyan University, wherbst@wesleyan.edu
Address: Department of Astronomy, Middletown, CT, 06459-0123, USA
CoI: Catrina Hamilton, Dickinson College
CoI: Chris Johns-Krull, Rice University
CoI: Josh Winn, MIT
CoI: Reinhard Mundt, MPIA-Heidelberg
CoI: Sandy Leggett, Gemini
Title: Near Infrared Spectroscopy of the Unique T Tauri Binary System KH 15D
Abstract:
KH 15D is a unique T Tauri binary system; it is the only known example of a
system at the key phase of planet formation where a settled particulate layer
of chondrule (mm) sized objects has clearly formed, but planetesimal
formation has not yet occurred. As such, it deserves intensive study to
ascertain its structure in detail, and the possibility that there is third
light in the system requires the close scrutiny that is only possible with an
8-10m class telescope. In Semester 10B we were awarded time with NIRI on
Gemini North to obtain medium resolution J-band spectra of KH 15D at two
orbital phases. The objective was to search for and characterize a putative
third body, assess the spectral differences between stars A and B, and extend
the search for a reflectance spectrum signature of silicate minerals and/or
ice. Unfortunately the loss of NIRI as a spectrometer, and poor weather
during the timing windows when GNIRS was available, led to observations only
being taken in the bright phase of the system. Here we propose to complete
the project by obtaining GNIRS cross-dispersed spectra of the system in its
faint phase.
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 > 2011B-0114 |
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