NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2013B-0064
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NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2013B-0064 |
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PI: Russell M. Genet, California Polytechnic State University, russmgenet@aol.com
Address: Research Scholar in Residence, 4995 Santa Margarita Lake Road, Santa Margarita, CA 93453, US
CoI: William I. Hartkopf, US Naval Observatory
CoI: R. Kent Clark, Univ. South Alabama
CoI: Paul Hardersen, Univ. North Dakota
CoI: Paul Wren, Univ. of North Dakota
CoI: Daniel Wallace, Univ. of North Dakota
CoI: Ryan Gelston, California Polytechnic State Univ.
Title: Speckle Interferometry and Photometry of Binary Stars
Abstract:
Binary orbits, when combined with parallaxes, yield dynamical
masses, while photometry of the components restrains astrophysical
models. Both are vital to understanding stellar evolution. Speckle
interferometry, which is telescope resolution limited as opposed to
seeing limited, allows observation of close, short-period binaries. We
will use our next-generation, ultra-portable, low cost, EMCCD based
speckle camera to observe some 500 binaries. We will confirm
Hipparcos/Tycho double star discoveries as candidates for new binaries,
classify new pairs by determining if their motion is curved (binary) or
linear (optical double), add high-accuracy speckle observations that
will allow the first determination of orbits, refine existing orbits by
extending orbital coverage with speckle observations, and obtain precise
photometry of binary components to link photometric with dynamical
masses. For a decade, PI Genet has held undergraduate astronomy
research seminars at Cuesta College that feature published student
observations of binary stars. This run will demonstrate that student
researchers can be an integral part of speckle interferometry runs at
major observatories.
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 > 2013B-0064 |
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