NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2012A-0493
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NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2012A-0493 |
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PI: Mansi Kasliwal, Carnegie Institution of Washington (Headquartes), mansi@obs.carnegiescience.edu
Address: Carnegie Observatories, Headquarters, 813 Santa Barbara Street, Pasadena, CA, 91101-1292, USA
CoI: Shri Kulkarni, Caltech (Physics, Maths and Astronomy)
CoI: Eran Ofek, Weizmann Institute for Science
CoI: Avishay Gal-Yam, Weizmann Institute for Science
CoI: Assaf Horesh, Caltech (Physics, Maths and Astronomy)
CoI: Eric Bellm, Caltech (Physics, Maths and Astronomy)
CoI: Yi Cao, Caltech (Physics, Maths and Astronomy)
CoI: Derek Fox, Pennsylvania State University
Title: Rapid Spectroscopy of Elusive Transients and Young Supernovae
Abstract:
The Palomar Transient Factory (PTF) is an ongoing synoptic survey designed
with the eponymous goal of a systematic exploration of the transient sky and
a clear appreciation that follow-up is as important as discovery. We have
discovered and spectroscopically classified over 1300 supernovae. Our
previous Gemini-PTF program successfully obtained the crucial first spectrum
of multiple transients that bridge the six-magnitude luminosity gap between
the brightest novae and faintest supernovae. We also obtained very early
spectra of supernovae caught in their infancy. Going forward, PTF is moving
to even faster cadence in search of even more ephemeral transients and young
supernovae. Therefore, rapid response spectroscopy would be essential in
identifying elusive transients and dictate a timely multi-wavelength
follow-up campaign. Here, we request eight target-of-opportunity triggers on
the Gemini-South (4.5 hours) and Gemini-North telescopes (4.5 hours). We have
ongoing programs for complementary follow-up: optical/NIR with
Palomar/Magellan/Keck, UV/X-ray with the Swift satellite and radio with EVLA.
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 > 2012A-0493 |
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