NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2012B-0214
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NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2012B-0214 |
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PI: Brad N. Barlow, Pennsylvania State University, bbarlow@psu.edu
Address: Astronomy Department, 525 Davey Lab, University Park, PA 16802, USA
CoI: S. Geier, Dr. Remeis-Sternwarte, U. Erlangen-Nurnberg
CoI: U. Heber, Dr. Remeis-Sternwarte, U. Erlangen-Nurnberg
CoI: T. Kupfer, Dr. Remeis-Sternwarte, U. Erlangen-Nurnberg
CoI: V. Schaffenroth, Dr. Remeis-Sternwarte, U. Erlangen-Nurnberg
Title: The MUCHFUSS project: Searching for the most massive companions to hot subdwarf stars (follow-up)
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 127 subdwarfs with velocity shifts
indicative of binary companions. We began a follow-up campaign in 2009
to solve for the orbital parameters of these systems. Characterizing
the nature of sdB binaries 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, compact
companions with the goal of obtaining orbital solutions and companion
masses for at least 20 targets. These observations would help us
complete the Southern-hemisphere portion of our survey.
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 > 2012B-0214 |
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