NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2012B-0412
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NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2012B-0412 |
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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 Astronomy
CoI: Eran Ofek, Weizmann Institute for Science
CoI: Avishay Gal-Yam, Weizmann Institute for Science
CoI: Assaf Horesh, Caltech Astronomy
CoI: Yi Cao, Caltech Astronomy
CoI: Derek Fox, Behrend College, Pennsylvania State University
CoI: Iair Arcavi, Weizmann Institute for Science
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 1450 supernovae and written
over 42 papers. 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 a total of
eight target-of-opportunity triggers on the Gemini-South and Gemini-North
telescopes (9.5 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 JVLA/CARMA.
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-0412 |
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