Laser flare photometry: a noninvasive, objective, and quantitative method to measure intraocular inflammation.

PubMed

Tugal-Tutkun, Ilknur; Herbort, Carl P

2010-10-01

Aqueous flare and cells are the two inflammatory parameters of anterior chamber inflammation resulting from disruption of the blood-ocular barriers. When examined with the slit lamp, measurement of intraocular inflammation remains subjective with considerable intra- and interobserver variations. Laser flare cell photometry is an objective quantitative method that enables accurate measurement of these parameters with very high reproducibility. Laser flare photometry allows detection of subclinical alterations in the blood-ocular barriers, identifying subtle pathological changes that could not have been recorded otherwise. With the use of this method, it has been possible to compare the effect of different surgical techniques, surgical adjuncts, and anti-inflammatory medications on intraocular inflammation. Clinical studies of uveitis patients have shown that flare measurements by laser flare photometry allowed precise monitoring of well-defined uveitic entities and prediction of disease relapse. Relationships of laser flare photometry values with complications of uveitis and visual loss further indicate that flare measurement by laser flare photometry should be included in the routine follow-up of patients with uveitis.

APPHi: Automated Photometry Pipeline for High Cadence Large Volume Data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sánchez, E.; Castro, J.; Silva, J.; Hernández, J.; Reyes, M.; Hernández, B.; Alvarez, F.; García T.

2018-04-01

APPHi (Automated Photometry Pipeline) carries out aperture and differential photometry of TAOS-II project data. It is computationally efficient and can be used also with other astronomical wide-field image data. APPHi works with large volumes of data and handles both FITS and HDF5 formats. Due the large number of stars that the software has to handle in an enormous number of frames, it is optimized to automatically find the best value for parameters to carry out the photometry, such as mask size for aperture, size of window for extraction of a single star, and the number of counts for the threshold for detecting a faint star. Although intended to work with TAOS-II data, APPHi can analyze any set of astronomical images and is a robust and versatile tool to performing stellar aperture and differential photometry.

Stellar photometry with the Wide Field/Planetary Camera of the Hubble Space Telescope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Holtzman, Jon A.

1990-07-01

Simulations of Wide Field/Planetary Camera (WF/PC) images are analyzed in order to discover the most effective techniques for stellar photometry and to evaluate the accuracy and limitations of these techniques. The capabilities and operation of the WF/PC and the simulations employed in the study are described. The basic techniques of stellar photometry and methods to improve these techniques for the WF/PC are discussed. The correct parameters for star detection, aperture photometry, and point-spread function (PSF) fitting with the DAOPHOT software of Stetson (1987) are determined. Consideration is given to undersampling of the stellar images by the detector; variations in the PSF; and the crowding of the stellar images. It is noted that, with some changes DAOPHOT, is able to generate photometry almost to the level of photon statistics.

Precise automatic differential stellar photometry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Young, Andrew T.; Genet, Russell M.; Boyd, Louis J.; Borucki, William J.; Lockwood, G. Wesley

1991-01-01

The factors limiting the precision of differential stellar photometry are reviewed. Errors due to variable atmospheric extinction can be reduced to below 0.001 mag at good sites by utilizing the speed of robotic telescopes. Existing photometric systems produce aliasing errors, which are several millimagnitudes in general but may be reduced to about a millimagnitude in special circumstances. Conventional differential photometry neglects several other important effects, which are discussed in detail. If all of these are properly handled, it appears possible to do differential photometry of variable stars with an overall precision of 0.001 mag with ground based robotic telescopes.

The calibration of read-out-streak photometry in the XMM-Newton Optical Monitor and the construction of a bright-source catalogue

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Page, M. J.; Chan, N.; Breeveld, A. A.; Talavera, A.; Yershov, V.; Kennedy, T.; Kuin, N. P. M.; Hancock, B.; Smith, P. J.; Carter, M.

2017-04-01

The dynamic range of the XMM-Newton Optical Monitor (XMM-OM) is limited at the bright end by coincidence loss, the superposition of multiple photons in the individual frames recorded from its micro-channel-plate (MCP) intensified charge-coupled device (CCD) detector. One way to overcome this limitation is to use photons that arrive during the frame transfer of the CCD, forming vertical read-out streaks for bright sources. We calibrate these read-out streaks for photometry of bright sources observed with XMM-OM. The bright-source limit for read-out-streak photometry is set by the recharge time of the MCPs. For XMM-OM, we find that the MCP recharge time is 5.5 × 10-4 s. We determine that the effective bright limits for read-out-streak photometry with XMM-OM are approximately 1.5 mag brighter than the bright-source limits for normal aperture photometry in full-frame images. This translates into bright-source limits in Vega magnitudes of UVW2=7.1, UVM2=8.0, UVW1=9.4, U=10.5, B=11.5, V=10.2, and White=12.5 for data taken early in the mission. The limits brighten by up to 0.2 mag, depending on filter, over the course of the mission as the detector ages. The method is demonstrated by deriving UVW1 photometry for the symbiotic nova RR Telescopii, and the new photometry is used to constrain the e-folding time of its decaying ultraviolet (UV) emission. Using the read-out-streak method, we obtain photometry for 50 per cent of the missing UV source measurements in version 2.1 of the XMM-Newton Serendipitous UV Source Survey catalogue.

Asteroid photometry

USGS Publications Warehouse

Li, Jian-Yang; Helfenstein, Paul; Buratti, Bonnie J.; Takir, Driss; Beth Ellen Clark,; Michel, Patrick; DeMeo, Francesca E.; Bottke, William F.

2015-01-01

Asteroid photometry has three major applications: providing clues about asteroid surface physical properties and compositions, facilitating photometric corrections, and helping design and plan ground-based and spacecraft observations. The most significant advances in asteroid photometry in the past decade were driven by spacecraft observations that collected spatially resolved imaging and spectroscopy data. In the mean time, laboratory measurements and theoretical developments are revealing controversies regarding the physical interpretations of models and model parameter values. We will review the new developments in asteroid photometry that have occurred over the past decade in the three complementary areas of observations, laboratory work, and theory. Finally we will summarize and discuss the implications of recent findings.

ASTROPOP: ASTROnomical Polarimetry and Photometry pipeline

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Campagnolo, Julio C. N.

2018-05-01

AstroPoP reduces almost any CCD photometry and image polarimetry data. For photometry reduction, the code performs source finding, aperture and PSF photometry, astrometry calibration using different automated and non-automated methods and automated source identification and magnitude calibration based on online and local catalogs. For polarimetry, the code resolves linear and circular Stokes parameters produced by image beam splitter or polarizer polarimeters. In addition to the modular functions, ready-to-use pipelines based in configuration files and header keys are also provided with the code. AstroPOP was initially developed to reduce the IAGPOL polarimeter data installed at Observatório Pico dos Dias (Brazil).

B, V Photometry for ~19,000 Stars in and around the Magellanic Cloud Globular Clusters NGC 1466, NGC 1841, NGC 2210, NGC 2257, and Reticulum

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jeon, Young-Beom; Nemec, James M.; Walker, Alistair R.; Kunder, Andrea M.

2014-06-01

Homogeneous B, V photometry is presented for 19,324 stars in and around 5 Magellanic Cloud globular clusters: NGC 1466, NGC 1841, NGC 2210, NGC 2257, and Reticulum. The photometry is derived from eight nights of CCD imaging with the Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory 0.9 m SMARTS telescope. Instrumental magnitudes were transformed to the Johnson B, V system using accurate calibration relations based on a large sample of Landolt-Stetson equatorial standard stars, which were observed on the same nights as the cluster stars. Residual analysis of the equatorial standards used for the calibration, and validation of the new photometry using Stetson's sample of secondary standards in the vicinities of the five Large Magellanic Cloud clusters, shows excellent agreement with our values in both magnitudes and colors. Color-magnitude diagrams reaching to the main-sequence turnoffs at V ~ 22 mag, sigma-magnitude diagrams, and various other summaries are presented for each cluster to illustrate the range and quality of the new photometry. The photometry should prove useful for future studies of the Magellanic Cloud globular clusters, particularly studies of their variable stars.

INTERPRETING FLUX FROM BROADBAND PHOTOMETRY

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Brown, Peter J.; Breeveld, Alice; Roming, Peter W. A.

2016-10-01

We discuss the transformation of observed photometry into flux for the creation of spectral energy distributions (SED) and the computation of bolometric luminosities. We do this in the context of supernova studies, particularly as observed with the Swift spacecraft, but the concepts and techniques should be applicable to many other types of sources and wavelength regimes. Traditional methods of converting observed magnitudes to flux densities are not very accurate when applied to UV photometry. Common methods for extinction and the integration of pseudo-bolometric fluxes can also lead to inaccurate results. The sources of inaccuracy, though, also apply to other wavelengths.more » Because of the complicated nature of translating broadband photometry into monochromatic flux densities, comparison between observed photometry and a spectroscopic model is best done by forward modeling the spectrum into the count rates or magnitudes of the observations. We recommend that integrated flux measurements be made using a spectrum or SED which is consistent with the multi-band photometry rather than converting individual photometric measurements to flux densities, linearly interpolating between the points, and integrating. We also highlight some specific areas where the UV flux can be mischaracterized.« less

Finding Exoplanets Using Point Spread Function Photometry on Kepler Data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Amaro, Rachael Christina; Scolnic, Daniel; Montet, Ben

2018-01-01

The Kepler Mission has been able to identify over 5,000 exoplanet candidates using mostly aperture photometry. Despite the impressive number of discoveries, a large portion of Kepler’s data set is neglected due to limitations using aperture photometry on faint sources in crowded fields. We present an alternate method that overcomes those restrictions — Point Spread Function (PSF) photometry. This powerful tool, which is already used in supernova astronomy, was used for the first time on Kepler Full Frame Images, rather than just looking at the standard light curves. We present light curves for stars in our data set and demonstrate that PSF photometry can at least get down to the same photometric precision as aperture photometry. As a check for the robustness of this method, we change small variables (stamp size, interpolation amount, and noise correction) and show that the PSF light curves maintain the same repeatability across all combinations for one of our models. We also present our progress in the next steps of this project, including the creation of a PSF model from the data itself and applying the model across the entire data set at once.

Improving the photometric precision of IRAC Channel 1

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mighell, Kenneth J.; Glaccum, William; Hoffmann, William

2008-07-01

Planning is underway for a possible post-cryogenic mission with the Spitzer Space Telescope. Only Channels 1 and 2 (3.6 and 4.5 μm) of the Infrared Array Camera (IRAC) will be operational; they will have unmatched sensitivity from 3 to 5 microns until the James Webb Space Telescope is launched. At SPIE Orlando, Mighell described his NASA-funded MATPHOT algorithm for precision stellar photometry and astrometry and presented MATPHOT-based simulations that suggested Channel 1 stellar photometry may be significantly improved by modeling the nonuniform RQE within each pixel, which, when not taken into account in aperture photometry, causes the derived flux to vary according to where the centroid falls within a single pixel (the pixel-phase effect). We analyze archival observations of calibration stars and compare the precision of stellar aperture photometry, with the recommended 1-dimensional and a new 2-dimensional pixel-phase aperture-flux correction, and MATPHOT-based PSF-fitting photometry which accounts for the observed loss of stellar flux due to the nonuniform intrapixel quantum efficiency. We show how the precision of aperture photometry of bright isolated stars corrected with the new 2-dimensional aperture-flux correction function can yield photometry that is almost as precise as that produced by PSF-fitting procedures. This timely research effort is intended to enhance the science return not only of observations already in Spitzer data archive but also those that would be made during the Spitzer Warm Mission.

JHK photometry of selected Trojan and Hilda asteroids

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, Dale W.; Johnson, Paul E.; Buckingham, William L.; Shorthill, Richard W.

1992-01-01

No entirely satisfactory match has been established between the present JHK photometry of selected Hilda and Trojan asteroids and photometry for both main belt asteroids and laboratory samples. It is noted that while the leading Trojans and Hildas exhibit similar and homogeneous JHK colors, the trailing Trojans appear to be more heterogeneous. Charcoal and magnetite provide the best match in terms of JHK colors.

High-cadence, High-contrast Imaging for Exoplanet Mapping: Observations of the HR 8799 Planets with VLT/SPHERE Satellite-spot-corrected Relative Photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Apai, Dániel; Kasper, Markus; Skemer, Andrew; Hanson, Jake R.; Lagrange, Anne-Marie; Biller, Beth A.; Bonnefoy, Mickaël; Buenzli, Esther; Vigan, Arthur

2016-03-01

Time-resolved photometry is an important new probe of the physics of condensate clouds in extrasolar planets and brown dwarfs. Extreme adaptive optics systems can directly image planets, but precise brightness measurements are challenging. We present VLT/SPHERE high-contrast, time-resolved broad H-band near-infrared photometry for four exoplanets in the HR 8799 system, sampling changes from night to night over five nights with relatively short integrations. The photospheres of these four planets are often modeled by patchy clouds and may show large-amplitude rotational brightness modulations. Our observations provide high-quality images of the system. We present a detailed performance analysis of different data analysis approaches to accurately measure the relative brightnesses of the four exoplanets. We explore the information in satellite spots and demonstrate their use as a proxy for image quality. While the brightness variations of the satellite spots are strongly correlated, we also identify a second-order anti-correlation pattern between the different spots. Our study finds that KLIP reduction based on principal components analysis with satellite-spot-modulated artificial-planet-injection-based photometry leads to a significant (˜3×) gain in photometric accuracy over standard aperture-based photometry and reaches 0.1 mag per point accuracy for our data set, the signal-to-noise ratio of which is limited by small field rotation. Relative planet-to-planet photometry can be compared between nights, enabling observations spanning multiple nights to probe variability. Recent high-quality relative H-band photometry of the b-c planet pair agrees to about 1%.

Spitzer Photometry of WISE-Selected Brown Dwarf and Hyper-Lumninous Infrared Galaxy Candidates

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Griffith, Roger L.; Kirkpatrick, J. Davy; Eisenhardt, Peter R. M.; Gelino, Christopher R.; Cushing, Michael C.; Benford, Dominic; Blain, Andrew; Bridge, Carrie R.; Cohen, Martin; Cutri, Roc M.;

Using SysRem as an Alternative Photometry Technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marshall, S.; Williams, J.; Mazeh, T.; Walker, G.; Strelnitski, V.

2010-02-01

In SysRem, a statistical photometric algorithm for the search for new variable objects (Tamuz et al. 2005; Mazeh et al. 2007), the correction for systematic errors for star i on frame j is expressed as the product of two coefficients, a_j and c_i. SysRem introduces some distortion to the light curves, because unknown variations of variable objects influence c_i and a_j. Shporer et al. (2007) applied SysRem for photometry of a known star with transiting planet, WASP-1b. To minimize the influence of target's variability, only the comparison stars were used for finding a_j; then c_t for the target was determined by minimizing the residuals from the best fitting model of the transit. We investigated further the possibility of using modified SysRem for precise photometry of known targets. Here we report on the results obtained with a version similar to that used by Shporer et al. (2007, hereafter ``SysRem-ph''). The target was a constant V = 11.12 star from Landolt cluster SA98 (Landolt 1992). Observations were performed on the 0.6-m MMO reflector with the Princeton Instruments E2V, 512× 512, CCD camera, on two nights, with filters V (74 frames) and I (76 frames), with 90 s and 40 s exposures per frame, respectively. The reductions were made by JW and GW. JW compared SysRem-ph with the ``grey'' differential photometry (in which the differences in colors and positions of stars are not taken into account) and with the regular SysRem, and GW - the results of ``grey'' and ``color'' differential photometry (Hardie 1962). Eight comparison stars were used by JW and 12 by GW. The results for the four data sets can be summarized as follows: (1) Regular SysRem produced standard deviations (STDEV) of 3-5 mmag, close to the predicted photon noise (≈ 4 mmag); (2) SysRem-ph gave larger STDEV than regular SysRem (by 0.8-0.9 mmag) but smaller than ``grey'' photometry (by 0.5-1.6 mmag); and (3) ``Color'' differential photometry was better than ``grey'' photometry by 1-2 mmag. We conclude that for one-color photometry of variable objects with identifiable periods of constancy, SysRem-ph can be a good alternative to the traditional ``grey'' differential photometry. The higher precision of SysRem-ph is due to the capability of SysRem to account for the differences in color and position of the involved stars, without prior knowledge of these differences (Mazeh et al. 2007).

Essentials of photometry for clinical electrophysiology of vision.

PubMed

McCulloch, Daphne L; Hamilton, Ruth

2010-08-01

Electrophysiological testing of the visual system requires familiarity with photometry. This technical note outlines the concepts of photometry with a focus on information relevant to clinical ERG and VEP testing. Topics include photometric quantities, consideration of pupil size, specification of brief extended flash stimuli, and the influence of the spectral composition of visual stimuli. Standard units and terms are explained in the context of the ISCEV standards and guidelines for clinical electrophysiology of vision.

MR Persei - A new rotating, spotted flare star

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Honeycutt, R. K.; Turner, G. W.; Vesper, D. N.; Schlegel, E. M.

1992-01-01

Spectroscopy and photometry are used to show that MR Persei, an object originally classified as a dwarf nova, is in fact a flare star. The automated CCD photometry consists of sequences of exposures within a single night as well as long-term photometry over a five-month interval. One sequence shows a 30-min flare, accompanied by post-flare 'dips'. A 0.2 mag variation with a period of about one-half day is also seen in this sequence. The long-term photometry is used to refine the period to 0.45483 d, which we attribute to the rotation of a spotted star. Evidence for membership of MR Per in the young Alpha Per cluster is considered, and found to be inconclusive.

Precision Photometry and Astrometry from Pan-STARRS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Magnier, Eugene A.; Pan-STARRS Team

2018-01-01

The Pan-STARRS 3pi Survey has been calibrated with excellent precision for both astrometry and photometry. The Pan-STARRS Data Release 1, opened to the public on 2016 Dec 16, provides photometry in 5 well-calibrated, well-defined bandpasses (grizy) astrometrically registered to the Gaia frame. Comparisons with other surveys illustrate the high quality of the calibration and provide tests of remaining systematic errors in both Pan-STARRS and those external surveys. With photometry and astrometry of roughly 3 billion astronomical objects, the Pan-STARRS DR1 has substantial overlap with Gaia, SDSS, 2MASS and other surveys. I will discuss the astrometric tie between Pan-STARRS DR1 and Gaia and show comparisons between Pan-STARRS and other large-scale surveys.

Photometry with FORS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Freudling, W.; Møller, P.; Patat, F.; Moehler, S.; Romaniello, M.; Jehin, E.; O'Brien, K.; Izzo, C.; Pompei, E.

Photometric calibration observations are routinely carried out with all ESO imaging cameras in every clear night. The nightly zeropoints derived from these observations are accurate to about 10%. Recently, we have started the FORS Absolute Photometry Project (FAP) to investigate, if and how percent-level absolute photometric accuracy can be achieved with FORS1, and how such photometric calibration can be offered to observers. We found that there are significant differences between the sky-flats and the true photometric response of the instrument which partially depend on the rotator angle. A second order correction to the sky-flat significantly improves the relative photometry within the field. We demonstrate the feasibility of percent level photometry and describe the calibrations necessary to achieve that level of accuracy.

The dwarf spheroidal galaxy in Draco. I - New BV photometry. II - Galactic foreground reddening

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stetson, P. B.

1979-01-01

BV photoelectric photometry for 39 stars and BV photographic photometry for 514 stars in the field of the Draco dwarf spheroidal galaxy are presented. The color-magnitude diagram for 512 of these field stars is found to display a well-defined red horizontal branch as well as a red giant branch whose observed width is comparable to the accidental photometric error. The results also indicate that a more diffuse sequence of stars lies about 0.1 mag to the blue of the giant branch and that an upper horizontal branch of more massive core helium-burning stars may also be present. The foreground reddening toward Draco is then determined by narrow-band uvby-beta photometry of galactic B-A-F stars.

APT: Aperture Photometry Tool

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Laher, Russ

2012-08-01

Aperture Photometry Tool (APT) is software for astronomers and students interested in manually exploring the photometric qualities of astronomical images. It has a graphical user interface (GUI) which allows the image data associated with aperture photometry calculations for point and extended sources to be visualized and, therefore, more effectively analyzed. Mouse-clicking on a source in the displayed image draws a circular or elliptical aperture and sky annulus around the source and computes the source intensity and its uncertainty, along with several commonly used measures of the local sky background and its variability. The results are displayed and can be optionally saved to an aperture-photometry-table file and plotted on graphs in various ways using functions available in the software. APT is geared toward processing sources in a small number of images and is not suitable for bulk processing a large number of images, unlike other aperture photometry packages (e.g., SExtractor). However, APT does have a convenient source-list tool that enables calculations for a large number of detections in a given image. The source-list tool can be run either in automatic mode to generate an aperture photometry table quickly or in manual mode to permit inspection and adjustment of the calculation for each individual detection. APT displays a variety of useful graphs, including image histogram, and aperture slices, source scatter plot, sky scatter plot, sky histogram, radial profile, curve of growth, and aperture-photometry-table scatter plots and histograms. APT has functions for customizing calculations, including outlier rejection, pixel “picking” and “zapping,” and a selection of source and sky models. The radial-profile-interpolation source model, accessed via the radial-profile-plot panel, allows recovery of source intensity from pixels with missing data and can be especially beneficial in crowded fields.

Galaxy And Mass Assembly: accurate panchromatic photometry from optical priors using LAMBDAR

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wright, A. H.; Robotham, A. S. G.; Bourne, N.; Driver, S. P.; Dunne, L.; Maddox, S. J.; Alpaslan, M.; Andrews, S. K.; Bauer, A. E.; Bland-Hawthorn, J.; Brough, S.; Brown, M. J. I.; Clarke, C.; Cluver, M.; Davies, L. J. M.; Grootes, M. W.; Holwerda, B. W.; Hopkins, A. M.; Jarrett, T. H.; Kafle, P. R.; Lange, R.; Liske, J.; Loveday, J.; Moffett, A. J.; Norberg, P.; Popescu, C. C.; Smith, M.; Taylor, E. N.; Tuffs, R. J.; Wang, L.; Wilkins, S. M.

2016-07-01

We present the Lambda Adaptive Multi-Band Deblending Algorithm in R (LAMBDAR), a novel code for calculating matched aperture photometry across images that are neither pixel- nor PSF-matched, using prior aperture definitions derived from high-resolution optical imaging. The development of this program is motivated by the desire for consistent photometry and uncertainties across large ranges of photometric imaging, for use in calculating spectral energy distributions. We describe the program, specifically key features required for robust determination of panchromatic photometry: propagation of apertures to images with arbitrary resolution, local background estimation, aperture normalization, uncertainty determination and propagation, and object deblending. Using simulated images, we demonstrate that the program is able to recover accurate photometric measurements in both high-resolution, low-confusion, and low-resolution, high-confusion, regimes. We apply the program to the 21-band photometric data set from the Galaxy And Mass Assembly (GAMA) Panchromatic Data Release (PDR; Driver et al. 2016), which contains imaging spanning the far-UV to the far-IR. We compare photometry derived from LAMBDAR with that presented in Driver et al. (2016), finding broad agreement between the data sets. None the less, we demonstrate that the photometry from LAMBDAR is superior to that from the GAMA PDR, as determined by a reduction in the outlier rate and intrinsic scatter of colours in the LAMBDAR data set. We similarly find a decrease in the outlier rate of stellar masses and star formation rates using LAMBDAR photometry. Finally, we note an exceptional increase in the number of UV and mid-IR sources able to be constrained, which is accompanied by a significant increase in the mid-IR colour-colour parameter-space able to be explored.

HIGH-CADENCE, HIGH-CONTRAST IMAGING FOR EXOPLANET MAPPING: OBSERVATIONS OF THE HR 8799 PLANETS WITH VLT/SPHERE SATELLITE-SPOT-CORRECTED RELATIVE PHOTOMETRY

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Apai, Dániel; Skemer, Andrew; Hanson, Jake R.

Time-resolved photometry is an important new probe of the physics of condensate clouds in extrasolar planets and brown dwarfs. Extreme adaptive optics systems can directly image planets, but precise brightness measurements are challenging. We present VLT/SPHERE high-contrast, time-resolved broad H-band near-infrared photometry for four exoplanets in the HR 8799 system, sampling changes from night to night over five nights with relatively short integrations. The photospheres of these four planets are often modeled by patchy clouds and may show large-amplitude rotational brightness modulations. Our observations provide high-quality images of the system. We present a detailed performance analysis of different data analysismore » approaches to accurately measure the relative brightnesses of the four exoplanets. We explore the information in satellite spots and demonstrate their use as a proxy for image quality. While the brightness variations of the satellite spots are strongly correlated, we also identify a second-order anti-correlation pattern between the different spots. Our study finds that KLIP reduction based on principal components analysis with satellite-spot-modulated artificial-planet-injection-based photometry leads to a significant (∼3×) gain in photometric accuracy over standard aperture-based photometry and reaches 0.1 mag per point accuracy for our data set, the signal-to-noise ratio of which is limited by small field rotation. Relative planet-to-planet photometry can be compared between nights, enabling observations spanning multiple nights to probe variability. Recent high-quality relative H-band photometry of the b–c planet pair agrees to about 1%.« less

WFPC2 Stellar Photometry with HSTphot

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dolphin, Andrew E.

2000-01-01

HSTphot, a photometry package designed to handle the undersampled PSFs found in WFPC2 images, is introduced and described, as well as some of the considerations that have to be made in order to obtain accurate PSF-fitting stellar photometry with WFPC2 data. Tests of HSTphot's internal reliability are made using multiple observations of the same field, and tests of external reliability are made by comparing with DoPHOT reductions of the same data. Subject headz'ngs: techniques: photometric

TNO Photometry and Spectroscopy at ESO and Calar Alto

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boehnhardt, H.; Sekiguchi, T.; Vair, M.; Hainaut, O.; Delahodde, C.; West, R. M.; Tozzi, G. P.; Barrera, L.; Birkle, K.; Watanabe, J.; Meech, K.

New photometry and spectroscopy of Transneptunian objects (TNO) has been obtained at ESO (VLT+FORS1, NTT+SOFI) and the Calar Alto (3.5m+MOSCA) observatory. BVRI photometry of more than 10 objects confirms the general colour-colour distribution of TNOs found previously. Quasi-simultaneous spectroscopy in the visible wavelength range of 5 TNOs did not reveal any spectral signature apart from the spetral gradients which are in agreement with the broadband colours. JHK filter photometry of 3 objects indicates that the reddening may only occur in the near-IR at least in some cases. Using new observations from the ESO VLT the lightcurve, colours and spectrum of 1996TO66 are investigated: the rotation period of 6.25h is confirmed, also the change in the lightcurve between 1997 and 1998 which indicates an exceptional behaviour in this object (temporary cometary activity ?). The 1999 photometry and spectroscopy in the visible revealed solar colours, no reddening and no spectral features. V-R colour changes over the rotation phase are not found. This works is done in colaboration with:

VizieR Online Data Catalog: WISE W1/W2 Tully-Fisher relation calibrator data (Neill+, 2014)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Neill, J. D.; Seibert, M.; Tully, R. B.; Courtois, H.; Sorce, J. G.; Jarrett, T. H.; Scowcroft, V.; Masci, F. J.

2017-04-01

We have instigated a separate project to provide high-quality surface photometry of all WISE galaxies larger than 0.8' on the sky. The WISE Nearby Galaxy Atlas (WNGA; M. Seibert et al., in preparation) will provide photometry that is quality controlled for over 20000 galaxies. This photometry, optimized for extended sources, significantly reduces the resulting scatter in the Tully-Fisher relation (here after TFR) calibration and thus improves the resulting distances. Having an accurate calibration of the TFR for these two WISE passbands will allow the use of this large sample to explore the structure and dynamics of local galaxy bulk flows. With the current tally, there are 310 cluster calibrators with WISE W1 and W2 photometry, compared with 213 available to Sorce et al. (2013, J/ApJ/765/94) for the Spitzer calibration, and 291 of the 310 WISE calibrators have I-band photometry, compared with the 267 available to Tully & Courtois (2012ApJ...749...78T) for the previous I-band calibration. (1 data file).

McDonald 2.1-m and CRTS Photometry of Eclipsing Polars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wells, Natalie; Mason, Paul

2018-01-01

We present broadband optical photometry of five polars made using the 2.1-m telescope of McDonald Observatory. Four of the polars are eclipsing (EP Dra, FL Cet, V2301 Oph, and a Catalina Sky Survey (CSS) polar candidate). In addition, a pre-polar (MQ Dra) was observed. Typical integration times were 1-3 seconds with no dead time. At this time resolution, eclipse structure can be seen in both one- and two-pole accretors. McDonald 2.1-m data over several years is phased together with CSS photometry covering up to 7 years, in search of indications of period variation. Combining the high-resolution, high-speed photometry obtained using the ProEm camera on the McDonald 2.1-m with the sparse, but high-quality multi-year baseline photometry of the CSS places strong constraints on the time variability of the eclipse periods in these binary systems. In most cases, eclipse variations do not perfectly fit a linear ephemeris. We investigate the source of variations using standard O-C diagram techniques and period search algorithms.

BRITE Constellation: data processing and photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Popowicz, A.; Pigulski, A.; Bernacki, K.; Kuschnig, R.; Pablo, H.; Ramiaramanantsoa, T.; Zocłońska, E.; Baade, D.; Handler, G.; Moffat, A. F. J.; Wade, G. A.; Neiner, C.; Rucinski, S. M.; Weiss, W. W.; Koudelka, O.; Orleański, P.; Schwarzenberg-Czerny, A.; Zwintz, K.

2017-09-01

Context. The BRIght Target Explorer (BRITE) mission is a pioneering space project aimed at the long-term photometric monitoring of the brightest stars in the sky by means of a constellation of nanosatellites. Its main advantage is high photometric accuracy and time coverage which are inaccessible from the ground. Its main drawback is the lack of cooling of the CCD detectors and the absence of good shielding that would protect them from energetic particles. Aims: The main aim of this paper is the presentation of procedures used to obtain high-precision photometry from a series of images acquired by the BRITE satellites in two modes of observing, stare and chopping. The other aim is a comparison of the photometry obtained with two different pipelines and a comparison of the real scatter with expectations. Methods: We developed two pipelines corresponding to the two modes of observing. They are based on aperture photometry with a constant aperture, circular for stare mode of observing and thresholded for chopping mode. Impulsive noise is a serious problem for observations made in the stare mode of observing and therefore in the pipeline developed for observations made in this mode, hot pixels are replaced using the information from shifted images in a series obtained during a single orbit of a satellite. In the other pipeline, the hot pixel replacement is not required because the photometry is made in difference images. Results: The assessment of the performance of both pipelines is presented. It is based on two comparisons, which use data from six runs of the UniBRITE satellite: (I) comparison of photometry obtained by both pipelines on the same data, which were partly affected by charge transfer inefficiency (CTI), (II) comparison of real scatter with theoretical expectations. It is shown that for CTI-affected observations, the chopping pipeline provides much better photometry than the other pipeline. For other observations, the results are comparable only for data obtained shortly after switching to chopping mode. Starting from about 2.5 years in orbit, the chopping mode of observing provides significantly better photometry for UniBRITE data than the stare mode. Conclusions: This paper shows that high-precision space photometry with low-cost nanosatellites is achievable. The proposed methods, used to obtain photometry from images affected by high impulsive noise, can be applied to data from other space missions or even to data acquired from ground-based observations. Based on data collected by the BRITE Constellation satellite mission, designed, built, launched, operated and supported by the Austrian Research Promotion Agency (FFG), the University of Vienna, the Technical University of Graz, the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), the University of Toronto Institute for Aerospace Studies (UTIAS), the Foundation for Polish Science & Technology (FNiTP MNiSW), and National Science Centre (NCN).

TRIPPy: Python-based Trailed Source Photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fraser, Wesley C.; Alexandersen, Mike; Schwamb, Megan E.; Marsset, Michael E.; Pike, Rosemary E.; Kavelaars, JJ; Bannister, Michele T.; Benecchi, Susan; Delsanti, Audrey

2016-05-01

TRIPPy (TRailed Image Photometry in Python) uses a pill-shaped aperture, a rectangle described by three parameters (trail length, angle, and radius) to improve photometry of moving sources over that done with circular apertures. It can generate accurate model and trailed point-spread functions from stationary background sources in sidereally tracked images. Appropriate aperture correction provides accurate, unbiased flux measurement. TRIPPy requires numpy, scipy, matplotlib, Astropy (ascl:1304.002), and stsci.numdisplay; emcee (ascl:1303.002) and SExtractor (ascl:1010.064) are optional.

UCAC4 Nearby Star Survey: A Search for Our Stellar Neighbors

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-12-01

AAVSO) Photometric All Sky Survey (APASS) and infrared photometry from the Two Micron All-Sky Survey ( 2MASS ). With the addition of the APASS...110 million have 2MASS JHKs. We used a 3 arcsecond match radius in the development of the UCAC4 catalog for inclusion of the 2MASS and APASS...a new set of 16 photometric color–MKs relations using (a) BVgri optical photometry from APASS, (b) JHKs near-infrared photometry from 2MASS , (c

Multicolor Photometry and Time-resolved Spectroscopy of Two sdBV Stars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reed, M. D.; O'Toole, S. J.; Telting, J. H.; Østensen, R. H.; Heber, U.; Barlow, B. N.; Reichart, D. E.; Nysewander, M. C.; LaCluyze, A. P.; Ivarsen, K. M.; Haislip, J. B.; Bean, J.

2012-03-01

Observational mode constraints have mostly been lacking for short period pulsating sdB stars, yet such identifications are vital to constrain models. Time-resolved spectroscopy and multicolor photometry have been employed with mixed results for short-period pulsating sdB stars. Time-resolved spectroscopy has successfully measured radial velocity, temperature, and gravity variations in six pulsators, yet interpreting results is far from straightforward. Multicolor photometry requires extremely high precision to discern between low-degree modes, yet has been used effectively to eliminate high-degree modes. Combining radial velocity (RV) and multicolor measurements has also been shown as an effective means of constraining mode identifications. We present preliminary results for Feige 48 and EC 01541-1409 using both time-resolved spectroscopy and multicolor photometry and an initial examination of their pulsation modes using the atmospheric codes BRUCE and KYLIE.

New MOST Photometry of the 55 Cancri System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dragomir, Diana; Matthews, Jaymie M.; Winn, Joshua N.; Rowe, Jason F.

2014-04-01

Since the discovery of its transiting nature, the super-Earth 55 Cnc e has become one of the most enthusiastically studied exoplanets, having been observed spectroscopically and photometrically, in the ultraviolet, optical and infrared regimes. To this rapidly growing data set, we contribute 42 days of new, nearly continuous MOST photometry of the 55 Cnc system. Our analysis of these observations together with the discovery photometry obtained in 2011 allows us to determine the planetary radius (1.990+0.084 -0.080) and orbital period (0.7365417+0.0000025 -0.0000028) of 55 Cnc e with unprecedented precision. We also followed up on the out-of-transit phase variation first observed in the 2011 photometry, and set an upper limit on the depth of the planet's secondary eclipse, leading to an upper limit on its geometric albedo of 0.6.

Multi-epoch BVRI Photometry of Luminous Stars in M31 and M33

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martin, John C.; Humphreys, Roberta M.

2017-09-01

We present the first four years of BVRI photometry from an on-going survey to annually monitor the photometric behavior of evolved luminous stars in M31 and M33. Photometry was measured for 199 stars at multiple epochs, including 9 classic Luminous Blue Variables (LBVs), 22 LBV candidates, 10 post-RGB A/F type hypergiants, and 18 B[e] supergiants. At all epochs, the brightness is measured in the V-band and at least one other band to a precision of 0.04-0.10 mag down to a limiting magnitude of 19.0-19.5. Thirty three stars in our survey exhibit significant variability, including at least two classic LBVs caught in S Doradus-type outbursts. A hyperlinked version of the photometry catalog is at http://go.uis.edu/m31m33photcat.

WISE Photometry for 400 million SDSS sources

DOE PAGES

Lang, Dustin; Hogg, David W.; Schlegel, David J.

2016-01-28

Here, we present photometry of images from the Wide-Field Infrared Survey Explorer (WISE) of over 400 million sources detected by the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS). We also use a "forced photometry" technique, using measured SDSS source positions, star-galaxy classification, and galaxy profiles to define the sources whose fluxes are to be measured in the WISE images. We perform photometry with The Tractor image modeling code, working on our "unWISE" coaddds and taking account of the WISE point-spread function and a noise model. The result is a measurement of the flux of each SDSS source in each WISE band. Manymore » sources have little flux in the WISE bands, so often the measurements we report are consistent with zero given our uncertainties. But, for many sources we get 3σ or 4σ measurements; these sources would not be reported by the "official" WISE pipeline and will not appear in the WISE catalog, yet they can be highly informative for some scientific questions. In addition, these small-signal measurements can be used in stacking analyses at the catalog level. The forced photometry approach has the advantage that we measure a consistent set of sources between SDSS and WISE, taking advantage of the resolution and depth of the SDSS images to interpret the WISE images; objects that are resolved in SDSS but blended together in WISE still have accurate measurements in our photometry. Our results, and the code used to produce them, are publicly available at http://unwise.me.« less

High accuracy transit photometry of the planet OGLE-TR-113b with a new deconvolution-based method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gillon, M.; Pont, F.; Moutou, C.; Bouchy, F.; Courbin, F.; Sohy, S.; Magain, P.

2006-11-01

A high accuracy photometry algorithm is needed to take full advantage of the potential of the transit method for the characterization of exoplanets, especially in deep crowded fields. It has to reduce to the lowest possible level the negative influence of systematic effects on the photometric accuracy. It should also be able to cope with a high level of crowding and with large-scale variations of the spatial resolution from one image to another. A recent deconvolution-based photometry algorithm fulfills all these requirements, and it also increases the resolution of astronomical images, which is an important advantage for the detection of blends and the discrimination of false positives in transit photometry. We made some changes to this algorithm to optimize it for transit photometry and used it to reduce NTT/SUSI2 observations of two transits of OGLE-TR-113b. This reduction has led to two very high precision transit light curves with a low level of systematic residuals, used together with former photometric and spectroscopic measurements to derive new stellar and planetary parameters in excellent agreement with previous ones, but significantly more precise.

[Research on the degradation of BaP with potassium ferrate characterized by fluorescence].

PubMed

Chen, Yu-Zhe; He, Qiang; Yu, Dan-Ni; Li, Si; Tan, Xue-Mei

2012-07-01

The degradation of Benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) by potassium ferrate was researched by means of multiple fluorescence spectroscopic methods such as synchronous, time-scan, excitation emission matrix (EEM) and photometry, under the optimal condition. Within the degradation process, the characteristics of the BaP's concentration at different time-intervals, and the kinetics of the degradation of BaP by potassium ferrate were discussed. From the experimental data, both synchronous and EEM spectra's results showed that the concentration of BaP was reduced 90% by potassium ferrate within 20 s after degradation, and the reaction process was very slow after 60 s. The degradation kinetic equation, ln(F0/Ft) = 0.563 2t + 0.171 2, (R2 = 0.994 2), was obtained through a convenient and fast way combining the time-scan fluorescence data and photometry data, and the photometry included the synchronous photometry and emission photometry. According to the kinetic equation, the degradation of BaP by potassium ferrate was in accord with the order of the first order reaction. So this article could provide a very useful conference for the research on the pollutant degradation by potassium ferrate, especially for the degradation process and the degradation mechanisms.

Jonckheere Double Star Photometry – Part VIII: Sextans

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Knapp, Wilfried

2018-01-01

If any double star discoverer is in urgent need of photometry then it is Jonckheere. There are over 3000 Jonckheere objects listed in the WDS catalog and a good part of them with magnitudes obviously far too bright. This report covers the Jonckheere objects in the constellation Sextans. One image per object was taken with V-filter to allow for visual magnitude measurement by differential photometry. All objects were additionally checked for common proper motion and a good part of the objects qualify indeed as potential CPM pairs.

Near-Earth Asteroid (297418) 2000 SP43: Lightcurve and Color Photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hergenrother, Carl W.

2018-07-01

Photometry of the Aten near-Earth asteroid (297418) 2000 SP43 was obtained on three nights in 2011 October with the University of Arizona Kuiper 1.54-m telescope. Lightcurve analysis yielded a rotation period of 6.314 ± 0.009 h and amplitude of 0.98 magnitudes. Broadband filter photometry found the following colors: B-V = +0.80, V-R = +0.50 and V-I = +0.85. These colors are consistent with an S-type taxonomy and agree with the results published in Hicks et al. (2011).

Jonckheere Double Star Photometry - Part XI: Lepus & Vulpecula

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Knapp, Wilfried; Nanson, John

2018-07-01

If any double star discoverer is in urgent need of photometry then it is Jonckheere. There are over 3000 Jonckheere objects listed in the WDS catalog and a good part of them with magnitudes obviously far too bright. This report covers the Jonckheere objects in the constellations Lep and Vul. At least one image per object was taken with V-filter to allow for visual magnitude measurement by differential photometry. All objects were additionally checked for common proper motion. Five qualify indeed as most probably CPM pairs with an additional five as potential CPM pairs.

BV RI CCD photometry of 361,281 objects in the field of M 31

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Magnier, E. A.; Lewin, W. H. G.; Van Paradijs, J.; Hasinger, G.; Jain, A.; Pietsch, W.; Truemper, J.

1992-01-01

Deep BV RI CCD photometry was performed on a 1 sq deg region of M 31. A catalog of photometry and astrometry of a total of 361,281 stars is presented, with typical completion limits of BV RI = (22.3, 22.2, 22.2, 20.9). Photometric accuracy is about 2 percent at V = 19. This catalog allows detailed studies of stellar populations and reddening. The data are currently being used to assist in finding the optical counterparts of Einstein and ROSAT X-ray sources.

STAR CLUSTERS IN M33: UPDATED UBVRI PHOTOMETRY, AGES, METALLICITIES, AND MASSES

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fan, Zhou; De Grijs, Richard, E-mail: zfan@bao.ac.cn, E-mail: grijs@pku.edu.cn

2014-04-01

The photometric characterization of M33 star clusters is far from complete. In this paper, we present homogeneous UBVRI photometry of 708 star clusters and cluster candidates in M33 based on archival images from the Local Group Galaxies Survey, which covers 0.8 deg{sup 2} along the galaxy's major axis. Our photometry includes 387, 563, 616, 580, and 478 objects in the UBVRI bands, respectively, of which 276, 405, 430, 457, and 363 do not have previously published UBVRI photometry. Our photometry is consistent with previous measurements (where available) in all filters. We adopted Sloan Digital Sky Survey ugriz photometry for complementarymore » purposes, as well as Two Micron All Sky Survey near-infrared JHK photometry where available. We fitted the spectral-energy distributions of 671 star clusters and candidates to derive their ages, metallicities, and masses based on the updated PARSEC simple stellar populations synthesis models. The results of our χ{sup 2} minimization routines show that only 205 of the 671 clusters (31%) are older than 2 Gyr, which represents a much smaller fraction of the cluster population than that in M31 (56%), suggesting that M33 is dominated by young star clusters (<1 Gyr). We investigate the mass distributions of the star clusters—both open and globular clusters—in M33, M31, the Milky Way, and the Large Magellanic Cloud. Their mean values are log (M {sub cl}/M {sub ☉}) = 4.25, 5.43, 2.72, and 4.18, respectively. The fraction of open to globular clusters is highest in the Milky Way and lowest in M31. Our comparisons of the cluster ages, masses, and metallicities show that our results are basically in agreement with previous studies (where objects in common are available); differences can be traced back to differences in the models adopted, the fitting methods used, and stochastic sampling effects.« less

The Dwarf Nova SY Cancri and its Environs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Landolt, A. U.; Clem, J. L.

2018-06-01

Multicolor UBVRI photometry, collected intermittedly over a period of 22 years, is presented for the dwarf nova SY Cancri. Additional UBVRI photometry for a handful of sequence stars in the vicinity of SY Cancri is also presented.

Time-resolved Spectroscopy and Multi-color Photometry Of The Pulsating and Short-period Binary Subdwarf B Star Feige 48

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reed, Mike; Baran, A.; O'Toole, S.

2012-05-01

Pulsating subdwarf B (sdB) stars can be used as probes of the helium fusing cores of horizontal branch stars. To probe these stars, asteroseismology must be able to observationally associate pulsation frequencies with modes. Time-resolved spectroscopy and multicolor photometry have been employed with mixed results for short-period pulsating sdB stars. Time-resolved spectroscopy has successfully measured radial velocity, temperature, and gravity variations in six pulsators, yet interpreting results is far from straightforward. Multicolor photometry requires extremely high precision to discern between low-degree modes, yet has been used effectively to eliminate high-degree modes. Combining RV and multicolor measurements has also been shows as an effective means of constraining mode identifications. I will present results for Feige 48 using both time-resolved spectroscopy and multicolor photometry and attempts to constrain their pulsation modes using the atmospheric codes BRUCE and KYLIE.

Division B Commission 25: Astronomical Photometry and Polarimetry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Walker, Alistair; Adelman, Saul; Milone, Eugene; Anthony-Twarog, Barbara; Bastien, Pierre; Chen, Wen Ping; Howell, Steve; Knude, Jens; Kurtz, Donald; Magalhães, Antonio Mario; Menzies, John; Smith, Allyn; Volk, Kevin

2016-04-01

Commission 25 (C25) deals with the techniques and issues involved with the measurement of optical and infrared radiation intensities and polarization from astronomical sources. As such, in recent years attention has focused on photometric standard stars, atmospheric extinction, photometric passbands, transformation between systems, nomenclature, and observing and reduction techniques. At the start of the trimester C25 changed its name from Stellar Photometry and Polarization to Astronomical Photometry and Polarization so as to explicitly include in its mandate particular issues arising from the measurement of resolved sources, given the importance of photometric redshifts of distant galaxies for many of the large photometric surveys now underway. We begin by summarizing commission activities over the 2012-2014 period, follow with a report on Polarimetry, continue with Photometry topics that have been of interest to C25 members, and conclude with a Vision for the Future.

Detection of Terrestrial Planets Using Transit Photometry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koch, David; Witteborn, Fred; Jenkins, Jon; Dunham, Edward; Boruci, William; DeVincenzi, Donald (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

Transit photometry detection of planets offers many advantages: an ability to detect terrestrial size planets, direct determination of the planet's size, applicability to all main-sequence stars, and a differential brightness change of the periodic signature being independent of stellar distance or planetary orbital semi-major axis. Ground and space based photometry have already been successful in detecting transits of the giant planet HD209458b. However, photometry 100 times better is required to detect terrestrial planets. We present results of laboratory measurements of an end-to-end photometric system incorporating all of the important confounding noise features of both the sky and a space based photometer including spacecraft jitter. In addition to demonstrating an instrumental noise of less than 10 ppm (an Earth transit of a solar-like star is 80 ppm), the brightnesses of individual stars were dimmed to simulate Earth-size transit signals. These 'transits' were reliably detected as part of the tests.

The Sloan Digital Sky Survey-II: Photometry and Supernova Ia Light Curves from the 2005 Data

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Holtzman, Jon A.; /New Mexico State U.; Marriner, John

2010-08-26

We present ugriz light curves for 146 spectroscopically confirmed or spectroscopically probable Type Ia supernovae from the 2005 season of the SDSS-II Supernova survey. The light curves have been constructed using a photometric technique that we call scene modeling, which is described in detail here; the major feature is that supernova brightnesses are extracted from a stack of images without spatial resampling or convolution of the image data. This procedure produces accurate photometry along with accurate estimates of the statistical uncertainty, and can be used to derive photometry taken with multiple telescopes. We discuss various tests of this technique thatmore » demonstrate its capabilities. We also describe the methodology used for the calibration of the photometry, and present calibrated magnitudes and fluxes for all of the spectroscopic SNe Ia from the 2005 season.« less

CCD Photometry of bright stars using objective wire mesh

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kamiński, Krzysztof; Zgórz, Marika; Schwarzenberg-Czerny, Aleksander, E-mail: chrisk@amu.edu.pl

2014-06-01

Obtaining accurate photometry of bright stars from the ground remains problematic due to the danger of overexposing the target and/or the lack of suitable nearby comparison stars. The century-old method of using objective wire mesh to produce multiple stellar images seems promising for the precise CCD photometry of such stars. Furthermore, our tests on β Cep and its comparison star, differing by 5 mag, are very encouraging. Using a CCD camera and a 20 cm telescope with the objective covered by a plastic wire mesh, in poor weather conditions, we obtained differential photometry with a precision of 4.5 mmag permore » two minute exposure. Our technique is flexible and may be tuned to cover a range as big as 6-8 mag. We discuss the possibility of installing a wire mesh directly in the filter wheel.« less

ESO/ST-ECF Data Analysis Workshop, 5th, Garching, Germany, Apr. 26, 27, 1993, Proceedings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grosbol, Preben; de Ruijsscher, Resy

1993-01-01

Various papers on astronomical data analysis are presented. Individual optics addressed include: surface photometry of early-type galaxies, wavelet transform and adaptive filtering, package for surface photometry of galaxies, calibration of large-field mosaics, surface photometry of galaxies with HST, wavefront-supported image deconvolution, seeing effects on elliptical galaxies, multiple algorithms deconvolution program, enhancement of Skylab X-ray images, MIDAS procedures for the image analysis of E-S0 galaxies, photometric data reductions under MIDAS, crowded field photometry with deconvolved images, the DENIS Deep Near Infrared Survey. Also discussed are: analysis of astronomical time series, detection of low-amplitude stellar pulsations, new SOT method for frequency analysis, chaotic attractor reconstruction and applications to variable stars, reconstructing a 1D signal from irregular samples, automatic analysis for time series with large gaps, prospects for content-based image retrieval, redshift survey in the South Galactic Pole Region.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Spitzer photometry of globulars in 2 galaxies (Spitler+, 2008)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Spitler, L. R.; Forbes, D. A.; Beasley, M. A.

2010-06-01

Catalogues are described in Spitler et al. (2008MNRAS.389.1150S) All photometry is corrected for Galactic dust extinction and are on the Vega photometric system. NGC 5128 optical photometry is from Peng et al. (2004ApJS..150..367P), as compiled in Woodley et al. (2007AJ....134..494W). Globular cluster identification numbers are from Woodley et al. (2007, Cat. J/AJ/134/494). NGC 4594 optical photometry is from Spitler et al. (2006AJ....132.1593S) updated with new aperture corrections as described in Harris et al. (2010MNRAS.401.1965H). Identification number, globular cluster half-light radii and the assumed distance modulus for the half-light radii are from Spitler et al. (2006, Cat. J/AJ/132/1593). A ultra-compact dwarf galaxy is included in this catalogue with ID="ucd" (see also Hau et al. 2009MNRAS.394L..97H). (2 data files).

Hypercalibration: A Pan-STARRS1-Based Recalibration of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey Photometry

DOE PAGES

Finkbeiner, Douglas P.; Schlafly, Edward F.; Schlegel, David J.; ...

2016-05-05

In this paper, we present a recalibration of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) photometry with new flat fields and zero points derived from Pan-STARRS1. Using point-spread function (PSF) photometry of 60 million stars with 16 < r < 20, we derive a model of amplifier gain and flat-field corrections with per-run rms residuals of 3 millimagnitudes (mmag) in griz bands and 15 mmag in u band. The new photometric zero points are adjusted to leave the median in the Galactic north unchanged for compatibility with previous SDSS work. We also identify transient non-photometric periods in SDSS ("contrails") based onmore » photometric deviations co-temporal in SDSS bands. Finally, the recalibrated stellar PSF photometry of SDSS and PS1 has an rms difference of {9, 7, 7, 8} mmag in griz, respectively, when averaged over 15' regions.« less

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Photometry and spectra of SN 2017dio (Kuncarayakti+, 2018)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuncarayakti, H.; Maeda, K.; Ashall, C. J.; Prentice, S. J.; Mattila, S.; Kankare, E.; Fransson, C.; Lundqvist, P.; Pastorello, A.; Leloudas, G.; Anderson, J. P.; Benetti, S.; Bersten, M. C.; Cappellaro, E.; Cartier, R.; Denneau, L.; Della Valle, M.; Elias-Rosa, N.; Folatelli, G.; Fraser, M.; Galbany, L.; Gall, C.; Gal-Yam, A.; Gutierrez, C. P.; Hamanowicz, A.; Heinze, A.; Inserra, C.; Kangas, T.; Mazzali, P.; Melandri, A.; Pignata, G.; Rest, A.; Reynolds, T.; Roy, R.; Smartt, S. J.; Smith, K. W.; Sollerman, J.; Somero, A.; Stalder, B.; Stritzinger, M.; Taddia, F.; Tomasella, L.; Tonry, J.; Weiland, H.; Young, D. R.

2018-02-01

ugriz + JHK photometry and optical spectra of SN 2017dio. Optical photometry was obtained in ugriz filters using ALFOSC at the Nordic Optical Telescope (NOT), IO:O at the Liverpool Telescope (LT), and Spectral at the 2 m telescopes of Las Cumbres Observatory. JHK photometry was obtained using NOT/NOTCam at one epoch, 2017 July 27. Optical slit-spectroscopy was obtained using ALFOSC at the NOT, EFOSC2 at the ESO New Technology Telescope (NTT, through the ePESSTO program), and SPRAT 45 at the LT. ALFOSC spectra cover 3300-9500Å, with a resolution of 16Å. With EFOSC2, grism #13, the coverage was 3500-9300Å, at a 21Å resolution. Additionally, in two epochs the EFOSC2 spectra were taken using grism #11 (16Å resolution). SPRAT covers 4000-8000Å, with a 18Å resolution. (10 data files).

Project MINERVA's Follow-up on Wide-Field, Small Telescope Photometry to Identify Exoplanets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Houghton, Audrey; Henderson, Morgan; Johnson, Samson; Sergi, Anthony; Eastman, Jason D.; Beatty, Thomas G.; McCrady, Nate

2017-01-01

MINERVA is an array of four 0.7-m telescopes equipped for high precision photometry and spectroscopy dedicated to exoplanet observations. During the first 18 months of science operations, MINERVA engaged in a program of photometric follow-up of potential transiting exoplanet targets identified by the Kilodegree Extremely Little Telescope (KELT). Robotically-obtained observations are passed through our data reduction pipeline and we extract light curves via differential photometry. We seek transit signals via a Markov chain Monte Carlo fit using BATMAN. We discuss results for over 100 target stars analyzed to date.

Vector space methods of photometric analysis - Applications to O stars and interstellar reddening

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Massa, D.; Lillie, C. F.

1978-01-01

A multivariate vector-space formulation of photometry is developed which accounts for error propagation. An analysis of uvby and H-beta photometry of O stars is presented, with attention given to observational errors, reddening, general uvby photometry, early stars, and models of O stars. The number of observable parameters in O-star continua is investigated, the way these quantities compare with model-atmosphere predictions is considered, and an interstellar reddening law is derived. It is suggested that photospheric expansion affects the formation of the continuum in at least some O stars.

Photometric calibration of NGS/POSS and ESO/SRC plates using the NOAO PDS measuring engine. I - Stellar photometry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cutri, Roc M.; Low, Frank J.; Marvel, Kevin B.

1992-01-01

The PDS/Monet measuring engine at the National Optical Astronomy Observatory was used to obtain photometry of nearly 10,000 stars on the NGS/POSS and 2000 stars on the ESO/SRC Survey glass plates. These measurements have been used to show that global transformation functions exist that allow calibration of stellar photometry from any blue or red plate to equivalent Johnson B and Cousins R photoelectric magnitudes. The four transformation functions appropriate for the POSS O and E and ESO/SRC J and R plates were characterized, and it was found that, within the measurement uncertainties, they vary from plate to plate only by photometric zero-point offsets. A method is described to correct for the zero-point shifts and to obtain calibrated B and R photometry of stellar sources to an average accuracy of 0.3-0.4 mag within the range R between values of 8 and 19.5 for red plates in both surveys, B between values of 9 and 20.5 on POSS blue plates, and B between values of 10 and 20.5 on ESO/SRC blue plates. This calibration procedure makes it possible to obtain rapid photometry of very large numbers of stellar sources.

New BVI {sub C} photometry of low-mass pleiades stars: Exploring the effects of rotation on broadband colors

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kamai, Brittany L.; Stassun, Keivan G.; Vrba, Frederick J.

2014-08-01

We present new BVI{sub C} photometry for 350 Pleiades proper motion members with 9 < V ≲ 17. Importantly, our new catalog includes a large number of K- and early M-type stars, roughly doubling the number of low-mass stars with well-calibrated Johnson/Cousins photometry in this benchmark cluster. We combine our new photometry with existing photometry from the literature to define a purely empirical isochrone at Pleiades age (≈100 Myr) extending from V = 9 to 17. We use the empirical isochrone to identify 48 new probable binaries and 14 likely nonmembers. The photometrically identified single stars are compared against theirmore » expected positions in the color-magnitude diagram (CMD). At 100 Myr, the mid K and early M stars are predicted to lie above the zero-age main sequence (ZAMS) having not yet reached the ZAMS. We find in the B – V versus V CMD that mid K and early M dwarfs are instead displaced below (or blueward of) the ZAMS. Using the stars' previously reported rotation periods, we find a highly statistically significant correlation between rotation period and CMD displacement, in the sense that the more rapidly rotating stars have the largest displacements in the B – V CMD.« less

New shape models of asteroids reconstructed from sparse-in-time photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Durech, Josef; Hanus, Josef; Vanco, Radim; Oszkiewicz, Dagmara Anna

2015-08-01

Asteroid physical parameters - the shape, the sidereal rotation period, and the spin axis orientation - can be reconstructed from the disk-integrated photometry either dense (classical lightcurves) or sparse in time by the lightcurve inversion method. We will review our recent progress in asteroid shape reconstruction from sparse photometry. The problem of finding a unique solution of the inverse problem is time consuming because the sidereal rotation period has to be found by scanning a wide interval of possible periods. This can be efficiently solved by splitting the period parameter space into small parts that are sent to computers of volunteers and processed in parallel. We will show how this approach of distributed computing works with currently available sparse photometry processed in the framework of project Asteroids@home. In particular, we will show the results based on the Lowell Photometric Database. The method produce reliable asteroid models with very low rate of false solutions and the pipelines and codes can be directly used also to other sources of sparse photometry - Gaia data, for example. We will present the distribution of spin axis of hundreds of asteroids, discuss the dependence of the spin obliquity on the size of an asteroid,and show examples of spin-axis distribution in asteroid families that confirm the Yarkovsky/YORP evolution scenario.

Reduction of time-resolved space-based CCD photometry developed for MOST Fabry Imaging data*

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reegen, P.; Kallinger, T.; Frast, D.; Gruberbauer, M.; Huber, D.; Matthews, J. M.; Punz, D.; Schraml, S.; Weiss, W. W.; Kuschnig, R.; Moffat, A. F. J.; Walker, G. A. H.; Guenther, D. B.; Rucinski, S. M.; Sasselov, D.

2006-04-01

The MOST (Microvariability and Oscillations of Stars) satellite obtains ultraprecise photometry from space with high sampling rates and duty cycles. Astronomical photometry or imaging missions in low Earth orbits, like MOST, are especially sensitive to scattered light from Earthshine, and all these missions have a common need to extract target information from voluminous data cubes. They consist of upwards of hundreds of thousands of two-dimensional CCD frames (or subrasters) containing from hundreds to millions of pixels each, where the target information, superposed on background and instrumental effects, is contained only in a subset of pixels (Fabry Images, defocused images, mini-spectra). We describe a novel reduction technique for such data cubes: resolving linear correlations of target and background pixel intensities. This step-wise multiple linear regression removes only those target variations which are also detected in the background. The advantage of regression analysis versus background subtraction is the appropriate scaling, taking into account that the amount of contamination may differ from pixel to pixel. The multivariate solution for all pairs of target/background pixels is minimally invasive of the raw photometry while being very effective in reducing contamination due to, e.g. stray light. The technique is tested and demonstrated with both simulated oscillation signals and real MOST photometry.

Fotometria Hβ en el O.A.N. Aplicación a estrellas en regiones H II.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lahulla, J. F.

Photoelectric Hβ photometry is reported for some UBVRI standard stars from the list of Neckel and Chini (1980). Complementary UBVRI and Hβ photometry was carried out for stars located in several H II regions.

Tomographic inversion of satellite photometry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Solomon, S. C.; Hays, P. B.; Abreu, V. J.

1984-01-01

An inversion algorithm capable of reconstructing the volume emission rate of thermospheric airglow features from satellite photometry has been developed. The accuracy and resolution of this technique are investigated using simulated data, and the inversions of several sets of observations taken by the Visible Airglow Experiment are presented.

Photometry of Faint and Wide Doubles in Vulpecula

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Knapp, Wilfried; Thuemen, Chris

2016-04-01

Images of several double stars in Vulpecula published on the "Double Star Imaging Project" Yahoo Group page suggest magnitude issues compared with the corresponding WDS catalog data per April 2015. Taking additional images with V-filter enabled photometry for these pairs, providing confirming results.

Photometry of Faint and Wide Doubles in Sagitta

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Knapp, Wilfried; Thuemen, Chris

2016-02-01

Images of several double stars in Sagitta published on the "Double Star Imaging Project" Yahoo Group page suggest magnitude issues compared with the corresponding WDS catalog data per April 2015. Taking additional images with V-filter enabled photometry for these pairs, provided confirming results.

New 1982-1990 photometry of Lambda Andromedae and its 11-year cycle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hall, Douglas S.; Henry, Gregory W.; Boehme, Dietmar; Brooks, Peter A.; Chang, Sandy; Dolzan, Ales; Fortier, George L.; Fried, Robert E.; Genet, Russell M.; Grim, Bruce S.

1991-01-01

The paper presents photoelectric photometry of Lambda And never before published, obtained between February 1982 and December 1990 at 29 different observatories. Then it is combined with all other photometry available (previously published, contained in the I.A.U. Commission 27 Archives, and obtained with the Vanderbilt 16-inch automatic telescope but not yet published), to yield a 14.8-year data base. Analysis reveals a long-term cycle in mean brightness, with a full range of 0.15 m and a period of 11.4 +/- 0.4 years. Because most of the new photometry was concentrated in the 1983-1984 observing season, this one well-defined light curve is analyzed with a two-spot model. Spot A keeps a 0.04 m amplitude throughout four rotation cycles whereas the amplitude of spot B diminishes from 0.09 m down almost to 0.03 m. The spot rotation periods were 55.9 d +/- 0.6 d and 52.8 d +/- 1.0 d, respectively.

Aperture Photometry Tool

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Laher, Russ R.; Gorjian, Varoujan; Rebull, Luisa M.; Masci, Frank J.; Fowler, John W.; Helou, George; Kulkarni, Shrinivas R.; Law, Nicholas M.

2012-07-01

Aperture Photometry Tool (APT) is software for astronomers and students interested in manually exploring the photometric qualities of astronomical images. It is a graphical user interface (GUI) designed to allow the image data associated with aperture photometry calculations for point and extended sources to be visualized and, therefore, more effectively analyzed. The finely tuned layout of the GUI, along with judicious use of color-coding and alerting, is intended to give maximal user utility and convenience. Simply mouse-clicking on a source in the displayed image will instantly draw a circular or elliptical aperture and sky annulus around the source and will compute the source intensity and its uncertainty, along with several commonly used measures of the local sky background and its variability. The results are displayed and can be optionally saved to an aperture-photometry-table file and plotted on graphs in various ways using functions available in the software. APT is geared toward processing sources in a small number of images and is not suitable for bulk processing a large number of images, unlike other aperture photometry packages (e.g., SExtractor). However, APT does have a convenient source-list tool that enables calculations for a large number of detections in a given image. The source-list tool can be run either in automatic mode to generate an aperture photometry table quickly or in manual mode to permit inspection and adjustment of the calculation for each individual detection. APT displays a variety of useful graphs with just the push of a button, including image histogram, x and y aperture slices, source scatter plot, sky scatter plot, sky histogram, radial profile, curve of growth, and aperture-photometry-table scatter plots and histograms. APT has many functions for customizing the calculations, including outlier rejection, pixel “picking” and “zapping,” and a selection of source and sky models. The radial-profile-interpolation source model, which is accessed via the radial-profile-plot panel, allows recovery of source intensity from pixels with missing data and can be especially beneficial in crowded fields.

Estimation of a super-resolved PSF for the data reduction of undersampled stellar observations. Deriving an accurate model for fitting photometry with Corot space telescope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pinheiro da Silva, L.; Auvergne, M.; Toublanc, D.; Rowe, J.; Kuschnig, R.; Matthews, J.

2006-06-01

Context: .Fitting photometry algorithms can be very effective provided that an accurate model of the instrumental point spread function (PSF) is available. When high-precision time-resolved photometry is required, however, the use of point-source star images as empirical PSF models can be unsatisfactory, due to the limits in their spatial resolution. Theoretically-derived models, on the other hand, are limited by the unavoidable assumption of simplifying hypothesis, while the use of analytical approximations is restricted to regularly-shaped PSFs. Aims: .This work investigates an innovative technique for space-based fitting photometry, based on the reconstruction of an empirical but properly-resolved PSF. The aim is the exploitation of arbitrary star images, including those produced under intentional defocus. The cases of both MOST and COROT, the first space telescopes dedicated to time-resolved stellar photometry, are considered in the evaluation of the effectiveness and performances of the proposed methodology. Methods: .PSF reconstruction is based on a set of star images, periodically acquired and presenting relative subpixel displacements due to motion of the acquisition system, in this case the jitter of the satellite attitude. Higher resolution is achieved through the solution of the inverse problem. The approach can be regarded as a special application of super-resolution techniques, though a specialised procedure is proposed to better meet the PSF determination problem specificities. The application of such a model to fitting photometry is illustrated by numerical simulations for COROT and on a complete set of observations from MOST. Results: .We verify that, in both scenarios, significantly better resolved PSFs can be estimated, leading to corresponding improvements in photometric results. For COROT, indeed, subpixel reconstruction enabled the successful use of fitting algorithms despite its rather complex PSF profile, which could hardly be modeled otherwise. For MOST, whose direct-imaging PSF is closer to the ordinary, comparison to other models or photometry techniques were carried out and confirmed the potential of PSF reconstruction in real observational conditions.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: gr photometry of Sextans A and Sextans B (Bellazzini+, 2014)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bellazzini, M.; Beccari, G.; Fraternali, F.; Oosterloo, T. A.; Sollima, A.; Testa, V.; Galleti, S.; Perina, S.; Faccini, M.; Cusano, F.

2014-04-01

The tables present deep LBT/LBC g and r photometry of the stars having image quality parameters (provided by DAOPHOTII) CHI<=2 and SHARP within magnitude-dependent contours traced to include the bulk of stellar objects. The observations were achieved on the night og 2012-02-21 with the Large Binocular Camera at the Large Binocular Telescope in binocular mode; g images were acquired with the blue arm and r images with the red arm of the telescope/camera. The astrometry and the photometry were calibrated with stars in common with SDSS-DR9 (V/139). (2 data files).

VizieR Online Data Catalog: UBV(RI)c photometry of Stock 16 (Vazquez+, 2005)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vazquez, R. A.; Baume, G. L.; Feinstein, C.; Nunez, J. A.; Vergne, M. M.

2005-02-01

CCD UBV(RI)c imaging photometry was carried out in the field of Stock 16 along two observational runs at the University of Toronto Southern Observatory, Las Campanas, Chile, using the Hellen Sawyer Hogg 60-cm telescope: on the nights of 1994 April 13, 14 and 16, we obtained UBVRI photometry for four frames with the nitrogen-cooled detector PM METHACROME UV coated (0.45"/pix) covering 4' on a side; three more frames were exposed on the nights of 1996 February 25 and 26 in the UBV(I)c bands (this time, the detector was glycol-refrigerated). (1 data file).

Jonckheere Double Star Photometry - Part VII: Aquarius

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Knapp, Wilfried R. A.

2017-10-01

If any double star discoverer is in urgent need of photometry then it is Jonckheere. There are over 3000 Jonckheere objects listed in the WDS catalog and a good part of them with magnitudes obviously far too bright. This report covers the Jonckheere objects in the constellation Aquarius. One image per object was taken with V-filter to allow for visual magnitude measurement by differential pho-tometry. All objects were additionally checked for common proper motion by comparing 2MASS to GAIA DR1 positions and a rather surprisingly large part of the objects qualify indeed as potential CPM pairs. For a few objects also WDS position errors were found.

Photometry and imaging of the peculiar planetary nebula IRAS 21282 + 5050

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kwok, Sun; Hrivnak, Bruce J.; Langill, Philip P.

1993-01-01

We report visible, near-infrared, and mid-infrared photometry of the IRAS planetary nebula 21282+ 5050. Narrow-band photometry at 10 microns confirms the presence of the 11.3-micron PAH feature. IRAS 21282+5050 belongs to a small group of planetary nebulae with WC11 nuclei and PAH emission. The spectral energy distribution shows that majority of the flux is emitted in the infrared, and the object has one of the highest infrared excesses among all planetary nebulae. Optical imaging (after subtraction of the central star) reveals a nebula of size of about 7 x 5 arcsec which is elongated along the N-S direction.

Jonckheere Double Star Photometry – Part X: Hercules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Knapp, Wilfried

2018-04-01

If any double star discoverer is in urgent need of photometry then it is Jonckheere. There are over 3000 Jonckheere objects listed in the WDS catalog and a good part of them with magnitudes obviously far too bright. This report covers 28 of the in total 82 Jonckheere objects in the constellation Hercules selected by a quick WDS data check for being potentially listed with questionable magnitudes. At least one image per object was taken with V-filter to allow for visual magnitude measurement by differential photometry. All objects were additionally checked for common proper motion and two qualify indeed as potential CPM pairs.

Iontophoresis and Flame Photometry: A Hybrid Interdisciplinary Experiment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sharp, Duncan; Cottam, Linzi; Bradley, Sarah; Brannigan, Jeanie; Davis, James

2010-01-01

The combination of reverse iontophoresis and flame photometry provides an engaging analytical experiment that gives first-year undergraduate students a flavor of modern drug delivery and analyte extraction techniques while reinforcing core analytical concepts. The experiment provides a highly visual demonstration of the iontophoresis technique and…

Photometry and Measurement of Faint and Wide Doubles in Eridanus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Knapp, Wilfried; Thuemen, Chris

2015-07-01

Images of several double stars in Eridanus published on the "Double Star Imaging Project" Yahoo Group page suggest magnitude issues compared with the corresponding WDS catalog data per 2014.12. Taking additional images with V-filter enabled photometry for these pairs with confirming results.

NEAR-INFRARED THERMAL EMISSION DETECTIONS OF A NUMBER OF HOT JUPITERS AND THE SYSTEMATICS OF GROUND-BASED NEAR-INFRARED PHOTOMETRY

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Croll, Bryce; Albert, Loic; Lafreniere, David

We present detections of the near-infrared thermal emission of three hot Jupiters and one brown dwarf using the Wide-field Infrared Camera (WIRCam) on the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope (CFHT). These include Ks-band secondary eclipse detections of the hot Jupiters WASP-3b and Qatar-1b and the brown dwarf KELT-1b. We also report Y-band, K {sub CONT}-band, and two new and one reanalyzed Ks-band detections of the thermal emission of the hot Jupiter WASP-12b. We present a new reduction pipeline for CFHT/WIRCam data, which is optimized for high precision photometry. We also describe novel techniques for constraining systematic errors in ground-based near-infrared photometry, so asmore » to return reliable secondary eclipse depths and uncertainties. We discuss the noise properties of our ground-based photometry for wavelengths spanning the near-infrared (the YJHK bands), for faint and bright stars, and for the same object on several occasions. For the hot Jupiters WASP-3b and WASP-12b we demonstrate the repeatability of our eclipse depth measurements in the Ks band; we therefore place stringent limits on the systematics of ground-based, near-infrared photometry, and also rule out violent weather changes in the deep, high pressure atmospheres of these two hot Jupiters at the epochs of our observations.« less

VizieR Online Data Catalog: OJ 287 far-infrared photometry (Kidger+, 2018)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kidger, M.; Zola, S.; Valtonen, M.; Laehteenmaeki, A.; Jaervelae, E.; Tornikoski, M.; Tammi, J.; Liakos, A.; Poyner, G.

2017-11-01

A search was made using the Herschel Science Archive (HSA) for calibration observations of OJ 287 made in standard photometric observing modes. A total of five photometric observations were found, all taken with the SPIRE photometer (Griffin 2010), each giving simultaneous photometry at 250, 350, and 500um. The observations were made on four Operational Days (ODs) between 2010/04/20 and 2010/05/23. We have three sources of visible monitoring data for this period. Our first source is the data in R only from the database of long-term monitoring maintained at the Astronomical Observatory of the Jagiellonian University (Cracow, Poland). This consists of 27 observations obtained from 19 nights of photometry in R, taken between April 1 and May 28, 2010. Additionally, very high-quality data are publicly available from the SMARTS telescope (Bonning et al. 2012ApJ...756...13B) in B, V, and R. 26 sets of BVR photometry are available between April 1 and May 31, 2010. The SMARTS monitoring programme also obtains high-quality data in the J and K bands in the near-infrared. Three nights have visible, but no infrared photometry, hence J and K data are available on 23 nights in April and May 2010. The 37GHz observations were made with the 13.7m diameter Metsahovi radio telescope, which is a radome-enclosed paraboloid antenna situated in Finland. (1 data file).

Fast infrared photometry of the black-hole candidate MAXI J1820+070

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Casella, P.; Vincentelli, F.; O'Brien, K.; Testa, V.; Maccarone, T. J.; Uttley, P.; Fender, R.; Russell, D. M.

2018-03-01

We report on near-infrared fast-photometry observations of the newly discovered X-ray transient MAXI J1820+070 (ATel #11399, #11400, #11406, #11418, #11420, , #11421, #11423, #11424, #11425, #11426, #11427, #11432, #11437, #11439, #11440, #11445), carried out with HAWK-I at VLT/Paranal.

Stromgren photometry of A-stars - A test of physical parameter determination

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Torra, J.; Figueras, F.; Jordi, C.; Rossello, G.

1990-08-01

By use of known published values for Teff, log g, and Mv, a check on a procedure (Figueras et al, 1990) for determining the physical parameters of A v-type stars from Stromgren photometry has been performed. External errors for the calculated physical parameters have been obtained.

ATel 7543: NIR photometry of SNhunt 275

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Richardson, Noel; Artigau, Etienne

2015-05-01

SNhunt 275 (PSN J09093496+3307204) appears to be behaving similarly to SN 2009ip with an eruptive mass-loss event followed by a supernova explosion. We obtained a few epochs of NIR photometry using the Observatoire du Mont Megantic 1.6 m telescope and the CPAPIR instrument (Artigau et al. ...

Characterization of Transiting Exoplanets by Way of Differential Photometry

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cowley, Michael; Hughes, Stephen

2014-01-01

This paper describes a simple activity for plotting and characterizing the light curve from an exoplanet transit event by way of differential photometry analysis. Using free digital imaging software, participants analyse a series of telescope images with the goal of calculating various exoplanet parameters, including size, orbital radius and…

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Globular cluster candidates in NGC253 (Cantiello+, 2018)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cantiello, M.; Grado, A.; Rejkuba, M.; Arnaboldi, M.; Capaccioli, M.; Greggio, L.; Iodice, E.; Limatola, L.

2017-11-01

Photometric catalogs for globular cluster (GC) candidates over the 1 sq. degree area around NGC253. The catalogues are based on ugri-band photometry from the VST data, and JKs photometry from VISTA. Aperture magnitudes, corrected for aperture correction are reported. (1 data file).

VizieR Online Data Catalog: HST VI Photometry of Six LMC Old Globular Clusters (Olsen+ 1998)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Olsen, K. A. G.; Hodge, P. W.; Mateo, M.; Olszewski, E. W.; Schommer, R. A.; Suntzeff, N. B.; Walker, A. R.

1998-11-01

The following tables contain the results of photometry performed on Hubble Space Telescope WFPC2 images of the Large Magellanic Cloud globular clusters NGC 1754, 1835, 1898, 1916, 2005, and 2019. The magnitudes reported here were measured from Planetary Camera F555W and F814W images using DoPHOT (Schechter, Mateo, & Saha 1993) and afterwards transformed to Johnson V/Kron-Cousins I using equation 9 of Holtzman et al. (1995PASP..107.1065H). We carried out photometry on both long (1500 sec combined in F555W, 1800 sec in F814W) and short (40 sec combined in F555W, 60 sec in F814W) exposures. Where the short exposure photometry produced smaller errors, we report those magnitudes in place of those measured from the long exposures. For each star, we give an integer identifier, its x and y pixel position as measured in the F555W PC image, its V and I magnitude, the photometric errors reported by DoPHOT, both the V and I DoPHOT object types (multiplied by 10 if the reported magnitude was measured in the short exposure frame), and a flag if the star was removed during our procedure for statistical field star subtraction. Summary of data reduction and assessment of photometric accuracy: Cosmic ray rejection, correction for the y-dependent CTE effect (Holtzman et al. 1995a), geometric distortion correction, and bad pixel flagging were applied to the images before performing photometry. For the photometry, we used version 2.5 of DoPHOT, modified by Eric Deutsch to handle floating-point images. We found that there were insufficient numbers of bright, isolated stars in the PC frames for producing aperture corrections. Aperture corrections as a function of position in the frame were instead derived using WFPC2 point spread functions kindly provided by Peter Stetson. As these artificially generated aperture corrections agree well with ones derived from isolated stars in the WF chips, we trust that they are reliable to better than 0.05 mag. In agreement with the report of Whitmore & Heyer (1997), we found an offset in mean magnitudes between the short- and long-exposure photometry. We corrected for this effect by adjusting the short-exposure magnitudes to match, on average, those of the long exposures. Finally, we merged the short- and long- exposure lists of photometry as described above and transformed the magnitudes from the WFPC2 system to Johnson V/Kron-Cousins I, applying the Holtzman et al. (1995PASP..107.1065H) zero points. Statistical field star subtraction was performed using color-magnitude diagrams of the field stars produced from the combined WF frames. Completeness and random and systematic errors in the photometry were extensively modelled through artificial star tests. Crowding causes the completeness to be a strong function of position in the frame, with detection being most difficult near the cluster centers. In addition, we found that crowding introduces systematic errors in the photometry, generally <0.05 mag, that depend on the V-I and V of the star. Fortunately, these errors are well-understood. However, unknown errors in the zero points may persist at the ~0.05 mag level. (5 data files).

VizieR Online Data Catalog: HST VI Photometry of Six LMC Old Globular Clusters (Olsen+ 1998)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Olsen, K. A. G.; Hodge, P. W.; Mateo, M.; Olszewski, E. W.; Schommer, R. A.; Suntzeff, N. B.; Walker, A. R.

1998-11-01

The following tables contain the results of photometry performed on Hubble Space Telescope WFPC2 images of the Large Magellanic Cloud globular clusters NGC 1754, 1835, 1898, 1916, 2005, and 2019. The magnitudes reported here were measured from Planetary Camera F555W and F814W images using DoPHOT (Schechter, Mateo, & Saha 1993) and afterwards transformed to Johnson V/Kron-Cousins I using equation 9 of Holtzman et al. (1995PASP..107.1065H). We carried out photometry on both long (1500 sec combined in F555W, 1800 sec in F814W) and short (40 sec combined in F555W, 60 sec in F814W) exposures. Where the short exposure photometry produced smaller errors, we report those magnitudes in place of those measured from the long exposures. For each star, we give an integer identifier, its x and y pixel position as measured in the F555W PC image, its V and I magnitude, the photometric errors reported by DoPHOT, both the V and I DoPHOT object types (multiplied by 10 if the reported magnitude was measured in the short exposure frame), and a flag if the star was removed during our procedure for statistical field star subtraction. Summary of data reduction and assessment of photometric accuracy: Cosmic ray rejection, correction for the y-dependent CTE effect (Holtzman et al. 1995a), geometric distortion correction, and bad pixel flagging were applied to the images before performing photometry. For the photometry, we used version 2.5 of DoPHOT, modified by Eric Deutsch to handle floating-point images. We found that there were insufficient numbers of bright, isolated stars in the PC frames for producing aperture corrections. Aperture corrections as a function of position in the frame were instead derived using WFPC2 point spread functions kindly provided by Peter Stetson. As these artificially generated aperture corrections agree well with ones derived from isolated stars in the WF chips, we trust that they are reliable to better than 0.05 mag. In agreement with the report of Whitmore & Heyer (1997), we found an offset in mean magnitudes between the short- and long-exposure photometry. We corrected for this effect by adjusting the short-exposure magnitudes to match, on average, those of the long exposures. Finally, we merged the short- and long- exposure lists of photometry as described above and transformed the magnitudes from the WFPC2 system to Johnson V/Kron-Cousins I, applying the Holtzman et al. (1995PASP..107.1065H) zero points. Statistical field star subtraction was performed using color-magnitude diagrams of the field stars produced from the combined WF frames. Completeness and random and systematic errors in the photometry were extensively modelled through artificial star tests. Crowding causes the completeness to be a strong function of position in the frame, with detection being most difficult near the cluster centers. In addition, we found that crowding introduces systematic errors in the photometry, generally <0.05 mag, that depend on the V-I and V of the star. Fortunately, these errors are well-understood. However, unknown errors in the zero points may persist at the ~0.05 mag level. (6 data files).

Mapping photometric metallicities in the Galactic halo using broadband photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hebenstreit, Samuel David; Nidever, David L.; Munn, Jeffrey A.; Majewski, Steven R.

2018-06-01

An important objective of modern Astrophysics is to trace the history of galaxies and the dynamics of their formations. The outer regions of the Milky Way, including the Galactic halo, could potentially elucidate the evolutionary history of our galaxy. In this study, we make use of extensive DDO51 photometry combined with SDSS broadband photometry to select giant stars reaching to 90 kpc. Photometric metallicities, calibrated by overlapping spectroscopic data (SDSS, APOGEE and LAMOST), and distances are calculated for all giant stars. Using these metallicities and distances, we construct metallicity distribution functions (MDFs) from these stars. We study the MDFs for information pertaining to the accretion history of the Milky Way.

2060 Chiron - CCD and electronographic photometry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bus, Schelte J.; Bowell, Edward; Harris, Alan W.; Hewitt, Anthony V.

1989-01-01

R-band observations conducted for 2060 Chiron using CCD photometry in November-December 1986 and March 1988 are discussed. While the 1986 observations exhibit neither periodic nor nonperiodic brightness changes ascribable to comet-like activity, the 1988 observations show an 0.6 + or - 0.1 mag brightening that confirms the Tholen et al. (1988) findings and is consistent with the 1978 electronographic photometry presented. The lightcurve amplitudes appear, however, to have remained unchanged from 1978 to 1988, and the image profiles from 1978 are indistinguishable from the stars in 1986 and 1988. It is suggested that Chiron has either been varying nonasteroidally of late, on a 1-2 month timescale, or its intrinsic brightness has been bistable over the past decade.

Fast Optical Photometry of V404 Cyg at the MDM Observatory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Terndrup, D.; Wagner, R. M.; Starrfield, S.

2015-06-01

We obtained continuous fast differential optical photometry of V404 Cyg with the 1.3 m McGraw-Hill Telescope of the MDM Observatory on Kitt Peak on the nights of 2015 June 19.220-19.474, 20.194-20.472, 21.199-21.460, and 22.188-22.421 UT.

Photometry of Faint Wide Doubles in Hydra

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Knapp, Wilfried; Thuemen, Chris; Gould, Ross

2015-11-01

Images of several double stars in Hydra published on the "Double Star Imaging Project" Yahoo Group page suggest magnitude issues compared with the corresponding WDS catalog data per end of 2014. Taking additional images with V and B filters enabled photometry for these pairs, suggesting significant corrections to the old data in WDS.

Third Workshop on Photometry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Borucki, William J. (Editor); Lasher, Lawrence E. (Editor)

2001-01-01

The discoveries of extrasolar planets by Wolszczan, Mayor and Queloz, Butler et al., and others have stimulated a widespread effort to obtain a body of data sufficient to understand their occurrence and characteristics. Doppler velocity techniques have found dozens of extrasolar planets with masses similar to that of Jupiter. Approximately ten percent of the stars that show planets with orbital periods of a few days to a week are expected to show transits. With the mass obtained from Doppler velocity measurements and the size from transit photometry, the densities of the planets can be determined. Theoretical models of the structure of "hot Jupiters" (i.e., those planets within a tenth of an astronomical unit (AU) of the parent star) indicate that these planets should be substantially larger in size and lower in density than Jupiter. Thus the combination of transit and Doppler velocity measurements provide a critical test of the theories of planetary structure. Furthermore, because photometry can be done with small-aperture telescopes rather than requiring the use of much larger telescopes, transit photometry should also reduce the cost of discovering extrasolar planets.

Photometry with NICMOS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Calzetti, D.; Dickinson, M. E.; Bergeron, L. E.; Colina, L.

1998-12-01

We summarize the performance of the NICMOS instrument and discuss the measured sensitivity, and the photometric performance and stability. We also present a method for removing an instrument artifact termed ``pedestal'', a bias instability that is present at a low level in most NICMOS images. The characteristics of dark frames will also be discussed, in particular as they relate to pedestal correction. NICMOS is capable of achieving the advertised performance in most areas. As an example, typical 3 sigma detection limits for a 5 orbit observation with NIC2 are 1.47 mJy arcsec(-2) in F110W, 1.67 mJy arcsec(-2) in F160W, and 12.6 mJy arcsec(-2) in F222M. The absence of time-dependent backgrounds makes infrared photometry from NICMOS highly stable, reaching an accuracy of 2% or better. NICMOS absolute calibration has been accomplished with a combination of solar analog stars and white dwarf standard stars and achieves 5% absolute photometry. An exception to these accuracies occurs for NIC3 at short wavelengths where intra-pixel sensitivity variations produces variations in relative photometry as large as 20%.

Multi-Site Simultaneous Time-Resolved Photometry with a Low Cost Electro-Optics System †

PubMed Central

Gasdia, Forrest; Barjatya, Aroh; Bilardi, Sergei

2017-01-01

Sunlight reflected off of resident space objects can be used as an optical signal for astrometric orbit determination and for deducing geometric information about the object. With the increasing population of small satellites and debris in low Earth orbit, photometry is a powerful tool in operational support of space missions, whether for anomaly resolution or object identification. To accurately determine size, shape, spin rate, status of deployables, or attitude information of an unresolved resident space object, multi-hertz sample rate photometry is required to capture the relatively rapid changes in brightness that these objects can exhibit. OSCOM, which stands for Optical tracking and Spectral characterization of CubeSats for Operational Missions, is a low cost and portable telescope system capable of time-resolved small satellite photometry, and is field deployable on short notice for simultaneous observation from multiple sites. We present the electro-optical design principles behind OSCOM and light curves of the 1.5 U DICE-2 CubeSat and simultaneous observations of the main body of the ASTRO-H satellite after its fragmentation event. PMID:28556802

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ma, Jun; Wang, Song; Wu, Zhenyu

This paper presents CCD multicolor photometry for 304 old star clusters in the nearby spiral galaxy M31, from which the photometry of 55 star clusters is first obtained. The observations were carried out as a part of the Beijing–Arizona–Taiwan–Connecticut Multicolor Sky Survey from 1995 February to 2008 March, using 15 intermediate-band filters covering 3000–10000 Å. Detailed comparisons show that our photometry is in agreement with previous measurements. Based on the ages and metallicities from Caldwell et al. and the photometric measurements here, we estimated the clusters’ masses by comparing their multicolor photometry with stellar population synthesis models. The results showmore » that the sample clusters have masses between ∼3×10{sup 4}M{sub ⊙} and ∼10{sup 7}M{sub ⊙} with a peak of ∼4×10{sup 5}M{sub ⊙}. The masses here are in good agreement with those in previous studies. Combined with the masses of young star clusters of M31 from Wang et al., we find that the peak mass of the old clusters is 10 times that of young clusters.« less

Multi-Site Simultaneous Time-Resolved Photometry with a Low Cost Electro-Optics System.

PubMed

Gasdia, Forrest; Barjatya, Aroh; Bilardi, Sergei

2017-05-30

Sunlight reflected off of resident space objects can be used as an optical signal for astrometric orbit determination and for deducing geometric information about the object. With the increasing population of small satellites and debris in low Earth orbit, photometry is a powerful tool in operational support of space missions, whether for anomaly resolution or object identification. To accurately determine size, shape, spin rate, status of deployables, or attitude information of an unresolved resident space object, multi-hertz sample rate photometry is required to capture the relatively rapid changes in brightness that these objects can exhibit. OSCOM, which stands for Optical tracking and Spectral characterization of CubeSats for Operational Missions, is a low cost and portable telescope system capable of time-resolved small satellite photometry, and is field deployable on short notice for simultaneous observation from multiple sites. We present the electro-optical design principles behind OSCOM and light curves of the 1.5 U DICE-2 CubeSat and simultaneous observations of the main body of the ASTRO-H satellite after its fragmentation event.

Comparing the ACS/WFC and WFC3/UVIS Calibration and Photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deustua, S. E.; Mack, J.

2018-03-01

A study was undertaken using synthetic photometry of CALSPEC stars to compare the ACS Wide Field Channel (WFC) photometry to the WFC3 UVIS imaging channel in eight similarly named passbands corresponding to the broadband filters F435W (ACS/WFC) F438W (WFC3/UVIS) and F475W, F555W, F606W, F625W, F775W, F814W and F850LP (both ACS/WFC and WFC3/UVIS). The uncertainty of the photometric calibration of ACS/WFC and WFC3/UVIS with respect to the white dwarf standard stars is within ± 0.5% for F814W, F775W, F606W and F475W, and within ±1% for F625W and F850LP. For F555W the apparent difference in the calibration is 2% for F555W and 6% for UVIS/F438W and ACS/F435W due to inherent differences in the filter passbands. Comparing the ACS/WFC to WFC3/UVIS mean flux for stars having a range of spectral types shows a color dependence. The WFC to UVIS F814W color dependence is ± 0.02 mags for F814W, F775W, F475W and F606W. For the other filters the range is -0.06 to +0.02 mags. Aperture photometry of the 47 Tucanae cluster confirm the results from using synthetic photometry of CALSPEC stars.

In Pursuit of LSST Science Requirements: A Comparison of Photometry Algorithms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Becker, Andrew C.; Silvestri, Nicole M.; Owen, Russell E.; Ivezić, Željko; Lupton, Robert H.

2007-12-01

We have developed an end-to-end photometric data-processing pipeline to compare current photometric algorithms commonly used on ground-based imaging data. This test bed is exceedingly adaptable and enables us to perform many research and development tasks, including image subtraction and co-addition, object detection and measurements, the production of photometric catalogs, and the creation and stocking of database tables with time-series information. This testing has been undertaken to evaluate existing photometry algorithms for consideration by a next-generation image-processing pipeline for the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope (LSST). We outline the results of our tests for four packages: the Sloan Digital Sky Survey's Photo package, DAOPHOT and ALLFRAME, DOPHOT, and two versions of Source Extractor (SExtractor). The ability of these algorithms to perform point-source photometry, astrometry, shape measurements, and star-galaxy separation and to measure objects at low signal-to-noise ratio is quantified. We also perform a detailed crowded-field comparison of DAOPHOT and ALLFRAME, and profile the speed and memory requirements in detail for SExtractor. We find that both DAOPHOT and Photo are able to perform aperture photometry to high enough precision to meet LSST's science requirements, and less adequately at PSF-fitting photometry. Photo performs the best at simultaneous point- and extended-source shape and brightness measurements. SExtractor is the fastest algorithm, and recent upgrades in the software yield high-quality centroid and shape measurements with little bias toward faint magnitudes. ALLFRAME yields the best photometric results in crowded fields.

SOUTHERN COSMOLOGY SURVEY. III. QSOs FROM COMBINED GALEX AND OPTICAL PHOTOMETRY

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jimenez, Raul; Verde, Licia; Spergel, David N.

2009-04-15

We present catalogs of QSO candidates selected using photometry from Galaxy Evolution Explorer (GALEX) combined with the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) in the Stripe 82 region and Blanco Cosmology Survey (BCS) near declination -55 deg. The SDSS region contains {approx_equal}700 objects with magnitude i < 20 and {approx_equal}3600 objects with i < 21.5 in a {approx_equal}60 deg{sup 2} sky region, while the BCS region contains {approx_equal}280 objects with magnitude i < 20 and {approx}2000 objects with i < 21.5 for a 11 deg{sup 2} sky region that is being observed by three current microwave Sunyaev-Zeldovich surveys. Our QSO catalogmore » is the first one in the BCS region. Deep GALEX exposures ({approx}>2000 s in F {sub UV} and N {sub UV}, except in three fields) provide high signal-to-noise photometry in the GALEX bands (F {sub UV}, N {sub UV} < 24.5 mag). From this data, we select QSO candidates using only GALEX and optical r-band photometry, using the method given by Atlee and Gould. In the Stripe 82 field, 60% (30%) of the GALEX-selected QSOs with optical magnitude i < 20 (i < 21.5) also appear in the Richards et al. QSO catalog constructed using five-band optical SDSS photometry. Comparison with the same catalog by Richards et al. shows that the completeness of the sample is approximately 40% (25%). However, for regions of the sky with very low dust extinction, like the BCS 23-hr field and the Stripe 82 between 0{sup 0} and 10{sup 0} in R.A., our completeness is close to 95%, demonstrating that deep GALEX observations are almost as efficient as multiwavelength observations at finding QSOs. GALEX observations thus provide a viable alternate route to QSO catalogs in sky regions where u-band optical photometry is not available. The full catalog is available at http://www.ice.csic.es/personal/jimenez/PHOTOZ.« less

KIC 8462852 optical dipping event

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Waagen, Elizabeth O.

2017-05-01

T. Boyajian (Louisiana State University) et al. reported in ATel #10405 that an optical dip is underway in KIC 8462852 (Boyajian's Star, Tabby's Star) beginning on 2017 May 18 UT. Tentative signs of small dips had been seen beginning April 24, and enhanced monitoring had begun at once at Fairborn Observatory (Tennessee State University). Photometry and spectroscopy from there on May 18 and 19 UT showed a dip underway. Cousins V photometry showed a drop of 0.02 magnitude, the largest dip (and the first clear one) seen in more than a year of monitoring. AAVSO observer Bruce Gary (GBL, Hereford, AZ) carried out V photometry which showed a fading from 11.906 V ± 0.004 to 11.9244 V ± 0.0033 between UT 2017 May 14 and May 19, a drop of 1.7%. Swift/UVOT observations obtained May 18 15:19 did not show a statistically significant drop in v, but Gary's photometry is given more weight. r'-band observations from Las Cumbres Observatory obtained 2017 May 17 to May 19 showed a 2% dip. Spectra by I. Steele (Liverpool JMU) et al. taken on 2017 May 20 with the 2.0 meter Liverpool Telescope, La Palma, showed no differences in the source compared to a reference spectrum taken 2016 July 4 when the system was not undergoing a dip (ATel #10406).Dips typically last for a few days, and larger dips can last over a week. It is not clear that this dip is over. Precision time-series V photometry is urgently requested from AAVSO observers, although all photometry is welcome. Finder charts with sequence may be created using the AAVSO Variable Star Plotter (https://www.aavso.org/vsp). See full Alert Notice for more details. KIC 8462852 was the subject of AAVSO Alert Notices 532 and 542. See also Boyajian et al. 2016, also available as a preprint (http://arxiv.org/abs/1509.03622). General information about KIC 8462852 may be found at http://www.wherestheflux.com/.

Surface photometry of WINGS galaxies with GASPHOT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

D'Onofrio, M.; Bindoni, D.; Fasano, G.; Bettoni, D.; Cava, A.; Fritz, J.; Gullieuszik, M.; Kjærgaard, P.; Moretti, A.; Moles, M.; Omizzolo, A.; Poggianti, B. M.; Valentinuzzi, T.; Varela, J.

2014-12-01

Aims: We present the B, V, and K band surface photometry catalogs obtained by running the automatic software GASPHOT on galaxies from the WINGS cluster survey with isophotal areas larger than 200 pixels. The catalogs can be downloaded at the Centre de Données Astronomiques de Strasbourg. Methods: The luminosity growth curves of stars and galaxies in a given catalog relative to a given cluster image were obtained simultaneously by slicing the image with a fixed surface brightness step in several SExtractor runs. Then, using a single Sersic law convolved with a space-varying point spread function (PSF), GASPHOT performed a simultaneous χ2 best-fit of the major- and minor-axis luminosity growth curves of galaxies. We outline the GASPHOT performances and compare our surface photometry with that obtained by SExtractor, GALFIT, and GIM2D. This analysis is aimed at providing statistical information about the accuracy that is generally achieved by the softwares for automatic surface photometry of galaxies. Results: The GASPHOT catalogs provide the parameters of the Sersic law that fit the luminosity profiles for each galaxy and for each photometric band. They are the sky coordinates of the galaxy center (RA, Dec), the total magnitude (m), the semi-major axis of the effective isophote (Re), the Sersic index (n), the axis ratio (b/a), and a flag parameter (QFLAG) that generally indicates the fit quality. The WINGS-GASPHOT database includes 41 463 galaxies in the B band, 42 275 in the V band, and 71 687 in the K band. The bright early-type galaxies have higher Sersic indices and larger effective radii, as well as redder colors in their center. In general, the effective radii increase systematically from the K to the V and B band. Conclusions: The GASPHOT photometry agrees well with the surface photometry obtained by GALFIT and GIM2D, and with the aperture photometry provided by SExtractor. In particular, the direct comparison of structural parameters derived by different softwares for common galaxies indicates that the systematic differences are small in general. The only significant deviations are most likely due to the peculiar (and very accurate) image processing adopted by WINGS for large galaxies. The main advantages of GASPHOT with respect to other tools are (i) the automatic finding of the local PSF; (ii) the short CPU execution time; and (iii) the remarkable stability against the choice of the initial-guess parameters. All these characteristics make GASPHOT an ideal tool for blind surface photometry of large galaxy samples in wide-field CCD mosaics. Catalogs are only available at the CDS via anonymous ftp to http://cdsarc.u-strasbg.fr (ftp://130.79.128.5) or via http://cdsarc.u-strasbg.fr/viz-bin/qcat?J/A+A/572/A87

VizieR Online Data Catalog: COSMOS Multi-Wavelength Photometry Catalog (Capak+, 2007)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Capak, P.; Aussel, H.; Ajiki, M.; McCracken, H. J.; Mobasher, B.; Scoville, N.; Shopbell, P.; Taniguchi, Y.; Thompson, D.; Tribiano, S.; Sasaki, S.; Blain, A. W.; Brusa, M.; Carilli, C.; Comastri, A.; Carollo, C. M.; Cassata, P.; Colbert, J.; Ellis, R. S.; Elvis, M.; Giavalisco, M.; Green, W.; Guzzo, L.; Hasinger, G.; Ilbert, O.; Impey, C.; Jahnke, K.; Kartaltepe, J.; Kneib, J.-P.; Koda, J.; Koekemoer, A.; Komiyama, Y.; Leauthaud, A.; Lefevre, O.; Lilly, S.; Liu, C.; Massey, R.; Miyazaki, S.; Murayama, T.; Nagao, T.; Peacock, J. A.; Pickles, A.; Porciani, C.; Renzini, A.; Rhodes, J.; Rich, M.; Salvato, M.; Sanders, D. B.; Scarlata, C.; Schiminovich, D.; Schinnerer, E.; Scodeggio, M.; Sheth, K.; Shioya, Y.; Tasca, L. A. M.; Taylor, J. E.; Yan, L.; Zamorani, G.

2008-03-01

The present COSMOS data were collected on a variety of telescopes and instruments, as well as from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) second data release (DR2) archive (u, g, r, i, z) and Hubble Space Telescope (HST, F814W). This paper covers the processing of the data obtained with Suprime-Cam on the Subaru 8.3m telescope (Bj, Vj, g+, r+, i+, z+, NB816), Megaprime on the 3.6m Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope (CFHT, u*, i*), FLAMINGOS on the Kitt Peak National Observatory (KPNO, Ks) 4m telescope, and the Infrared Side Port Imager on the Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory (CTIO, Ks) 4m telescope during the 2004-2005 observing season. The COSMOS I band catalog is an I band selected multi-color catalog for 2 square degrees centered on the COSMOS field at 10:00:28.6, +02:12:21. The total magnitude (SExtractor mag_auto) for a source must have an AB magnitude of less than i+<25 to appear in the archival catalog. All photometry is in the AB magnitude system and measured in a 3 arc second aperture on PSF-matched images unless otherwise noted. A magnitude of -99 indicates a photometric measurement was not possible due to lack of data, a large number of bad pixels, or saturation. A magnitude of 99.0 indicates no detection. In the case of no detection the error given for the object is the 1 sigma limiting magnitude at the position of the souce. The photometry is as measured on the images with no corrections applied. We recommend applying the magnitude offsets in the paper to obtain the best possible photometry. More details on the photometry are available in the paper. The Photometric Redshifts included in this catalog are described in Mobasher et al. (2007ApJS..172..117M) and have an accuracy of dz/(1+z)<0.031 at z<1.2 and I<24. It is important to pay attention to the flag columns at the end of the catalog. The cleanest catalog will have all flags set to 0. The photometry flags indicate the area of the photometry aperture, in square arc seconds, which is in a masked region. A flag of 1 indicates 14 percent of the aperture is masked, so any flagged object should be carefully checked. Objects with a de-blending flag set to 1 are potentially spurious and should not be used for statistical studies. However, the photometry for real sources with a de-blending flag set to 1 is good if they fall outside of masked region. (1 data file).

VizieR Online Data Catalog: COSMOS Multi-Wavelength Photometry Catalog (Capak+, 2007)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Capak, P.; Aussel, H.; Ajiki, M.; McCracken, H. J.; Mobasher, B.; Scoville, N.; Shopbell, P.; Taniguchi, Y.; Thompson, D.; Tribiano, S.; Sasaki, S.; Blain, A. W.; Brusa, M.; Carilli, C.; Comastri, A.; Carollo, C. M.; Cassata, P.; Colbert, J.; Ellis, R. S.; Elvis, M.; Giavalisco, M.; Green, W.; Guzzo, L.; Hasinger, G.; Ilbert, O.; Impey, C.; Jahnke, K.; Kartaltepe, J.; Kneib, J.-P.; Koda, J.; Koekemoer, A.; Komiyama, Y.; Leauthaud, A.; Lefevre, O.; Lilly, S.; Liu, C.; Massey, R.; Miyazaki, S.; Murayama, T.; Nagao, T.; Peacock, J. A.; Pickles, A.; Porciani, C.; Renzini, A.; Rhodes, J.; Rich, M.; Salvato, M.; Sanders, D. B.; Scarlata, C.; Schiminovich, D.; Schinnerer, E.; Scodeggio, M.; Sheth, K.; Shioya, Y.; Tasca, L. A. M.; Taylor, J. E.; Yan, L.; Zamorani, G.

2008-03-01

The present COSMOS data were collected on a variety of telescopes and instruments, as well as from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) second data release (DR2) archive (u, g, r, i, z) and Hubble Space Telescope (HST, F814W). This paper covers the processing of the data obtained with Suprime-Cam on the Subaru 8.3m telescope (Bj, Vj, g+, r+, i+, z+, NB816), Megaprime on the 3.6m Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope (CFHT, u*, i*), FLAMINGOS on the Kitt Peak National Observatory (KPNO, Ks) 4m telescope, and the Infrared Side Port Imager on the Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory (CTIO, Ks) 4m telescope during the 2004-2005 observing season. The COSMOS I band catalog is an I band selected multi-color catalog for 2 square degrees centered on the COSMOS field at 10:00:28.6, +02:12:21. The total magnitude (SExtractor mag_auto) for a source must have an AB magnitude of less than i+<25 to appear in the archival catalog. All photometry is in the AB magnitude system and measured in a 3" aperture on PSF-matched images unless otherwise noted. A magnitude of -99 indicates a photometric measurement was not possible due to lack of data, a large number of bad pixels, or saturation. A magnitude of 99.0 indicates no detection. In the case of no detection the error given for the object is the 1 sigma limiting magnitude at the position of the source. The photometry is as measured on the images with no corrections applied. We recommend applying the magnitude offsets in the paper to obtain the best possible photometry. More details on the photometry are available in the paper. The Photometric Redshifts included in this catalog are described in Mobasher et al. (2007ApJS..172..117M) and have an accuracy of dz/(1+z)<0.031 at z<1.2 and I<24. It is important to pay attention to the flag columns at the end of the catalog. The cleanest catalog will have all flags set to 0. The photometry flags indicate the area of the photometry aperture, in square arc seconds, which is in a masked region. A flag of 1 indicates 14 percent of the aperture is masked, so any flagged object should be carefully checked. Objects with a de-blending flag set to 1 are potentially spurious and should not be used for statistical studies. However, the photometry for real sources with a de-blending flag set to 1 is good if they fall outside of masked region. (1 data file).

UBV photometry of Cyg X-1 from 1996 to 2003

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Voloshina, I. B.; Lyuty, V.

2004-07-01

The preliminary results of analysis of $UBV$-photometry of the black hole candidate Cyg X-1 in primary minimum are presented. These observations were carried out with the main goal of studying in detail the variability that was detected by Lyuty in 1985 in the optical light curve of this system near orbital phase 0.00.

Photometry of Standard Stars and Open Star Clusters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jefferies, Amanda; Frinchaboy, Peter

2010-10-01

Photometric CCD observations of open star clusters and standard stars were carried out at the McDonald Observatory in Fort Davis, Texas. This data was analyzed using aperture photometry algorithms (DAOPHOT II and ALLSTAR) and the IRAF software package. Color-magnitude diagrams of these clusters were produced, showing the evolution of each cluster along the main sequence.

JCMT COADD: UKT14 continuum and photometry data reduction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hughes, David; Oliveira, Firmin J.; Tilanus, Remo P. J.; Jenness, Tim

2014-11-01

COADD was used to reduce photometry and continuum data from the UKT14 instrument on the James Clerk Maxwell Telescope in the 1990s. The software can co-add multiple observations and perform sigma clipping and Kolmogorov-Smirnov statistical analysis. Additional information on the software is available in the JCMT Spring 1993 newsletter (large PDF).

Analysis of photometry of luminous hot stars from BRITE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rybicka, M.

2017-09-01

The hot part of the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram contains many types of variable stars. The driving mechanisms are not yet understood. They can be pulsations, convection, stellar wind, granulation or other processes. The pulsations can be excited by different mechanisms. We will present here the results of the analysis of the BRITE-Constellation photometry of OB stars.

Multi-color Photometry of the Hot R Coronae Borealis Star, MV Sagittarii

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Landolt, A. U.; Clem, J. L.

2017-12-01

A long term program of photoelectric UBVRI photometry has been combined with AAVSO archival data for the hot, R CrB-type hydrogen deficient star MV Sgr. A deep minimum and a trend of decreasing brightness over time at maximum light thereby become evident. Variations seen via monitoring with a CCD detector also are described.

Is the U-B color sufficient for identifying water of hydration on solar system bodies?

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vilas, Faith

1995-01-01

The U-B color has been suggested as a predictor of the presence of water of hydration on asteroids. Photometry from the Eight-Color Asteroid Survey (ECAS) was used to test this concept. An overlap in U-B color prevents this magnitude difference from distinguishing between surface material that was thermally processed at higher temperatures and surface material that was aqueously altered. Two tests of the presence of water of hydration using visible spectral region photometry failed to flag those few higher albedo M- and E-class asteroids having photometry that shows a 3.0-micrometers water of hydration absorption. These asteroids probably contain little or no oxidized iron in their surface material.

Groundbased cometary studies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schleicher, David G.

1991-01-01

The physical properties of comets were studied by applying a wide variety of observational techniques. Emphasis is on simultaneous or coordinated observations in different spectral regions (e.g., visible and thermal IR or visible and far UV) or with different instrumentation (imaging, spectroscopy, and photometry). The aim was to: (1) measure the basic properties of cometary nuclei by studying comets whose comae are so anemic that the signal from the nucleus can be extracted; (2) investigate the group characteristics of comets by narrowband photometry applied uniformly to a large sample of comets; (3) understand the detailed physics and chemistry occurring in cometary comae through wide-field charge coupled device (CCD) imaging using narrow filters and through long-slit CCD spectroscopy; and (4) investigate the rotational states of comets through time-resolution photometry.

Stellar populations in the dwarf elliptical galaxy NGC 185

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, Myung G.; Freedman, Wendy L.; Madore, Barry F.

1993-01-01

The study presents BVRI CCD photometry of about 5300 stars in the central area of the dwarf elliptical galaxy NGC 185 in the Local Group. The color-magnitude diagram shows three distinct stellar populations: a dominant RGB population, AGB stars located above the tip of the RGB stars, and a small number of young stars having blue to yellow colors. The foreground reddening is estimated to be 0.19 +/- 0.03 mag using the (B - V) - (V - I) diagram for the bright foreground stars with good photometry. Surface photometry of the central area of NGC 185 is presented; it shows that the colors become rapidly bluer inside R of about 10 arcsec. Structural parameters indicate that the mass-to-luminosity ratio ranges from 3 to 5.

Copernicus spectra and infrared photometry of 42 Orionis

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Johnson, H.M.; Snow, T.P. Jr.; Gehrz, R.D.

1977-04-01

The Orion sword star 42 Ori is embedded in a nebula north of and separated from the Orion nebula. The B1 V star is probably normal. Other members of the multiple remain poorly defined, and the nebula may exhibit some peculiarities that may depend on them. Copernicus ultraviolet spectra of the star are described here, especially in the form of tables of wavelength identifications. The properties of the interstellar material in the line of sight are also discussed. We present infrared photometry which suggests that 3 less than or equal to R less than or equal to 3.5 for themore » interstellar matter in the direction of 42 Ori. The IR photometry provides no evidence for companion stellar or circumstellar components.« less

Copernicus spectra and infrared photometry of 42 Orionis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, H. M.; Snow, T. P., Jr.; Gehrz, R. D.; Hackwell, J. A.

1977-01-01

The Orion sword star 42 Ori is embedded in a nebula north of and separated from the Orion nebula. The B1 V star is probably normal. Other members of the multiple remain poorly defined, and the nebula may exhibit some peculiarities that may depend on them. Copernicus ultraviolet spectra of the star are described here, especially in the form of tables of wavelength identifications. The properties of the interstellar material in the line of sight are also discussed. Infrared photometry is presented which suggests that the ratio of total to selective extinction ranges from 3 to 3.5 for the interstellar matter in the direction of 42 Ori. The IR photometry provides no evidence for companion stellar or circumstellar components.

ISAAC Photometric Comparison of ECLIPSE Jitter and the ORAC-DR Equivalent Recipe for ISAAC

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Currie, M. J.

2005-12-01

Motivated by a request from astronomers demanding accurate and consistent infrared photometry, I compare the photometry and quality of mosaics generated by the ECLIPSE jitter task and the ORAC-DR JITTER_SELF_FLAT recipe in two fields. The current (v4.9.0) ECLIPSE produces photometry a few percent fainter than ORAC-DR; the systematic trend with magnitude seen in v4.4.1 is now removed. Random errors arising from poor flat-fielding are not resolved. ECLIPSE generates noisier mosaics; ORAC-DR has poorer bias removal in crowded fields and defaults to larger mosaics. ORAC-DR runs a few times slower than ECLIPSE, but its recipe development is measured in weeks, not years.

Investigating Open Clusters Melotte 111 and NGC 6811

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gunshefski, Linda; Paust, Nathaniel E. Q.; van Belle, Gerard

2018-01-01

We present photometry and color-magnitude diagrams for the open clusters Melotte 111 (Coma Bernices) and NGC 6811. These clusters were observed with Lowell Observatory’s Discovery Channel Telescope Large Monolithic Imager in the V and I bands. The images were reduced with IRAF and photometry was performed with DAOPHOT/ALLSTAR. The resulting photometry extends many magnitudes below the main sequence turnoff. Both clusters are located nearby, (Melotte 111 d=86 pc and NGC 6811 d=1,107) and are evolutionarily young (Melotte 111, age=450 Myr and NGC 6811, age=1,000 Myr). This work marks the first step of a project to determine the cluster main sequence mass functions and examine how the mass functions evolve in young stellar populations.

Jonckheere Double Star Photometry – Part IX: Sagitta

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Knapp, Wilfried

2018-01-01

If any double star discoverer is in urgent need of photometry then it is Jonckheere. There are over 3000 Jonckheere objects listed in the WDS catalog and a good part with magnitudes obviously far too bright. This report covers a part of the Jonckheere objects in the constellation Sagitta including a check if physical by means of UCAC5 proper motion data. In most cases only one image per object is taken for differential photometry as even a single image based measurement is better than the currently often given mere estimation. As by-product a new CPM candidate pair was discovered and as appendix the UCAC5 proper motion data quality was counter-checked with GAIA DR1 (TGAS).

WISE PHOTOMETRY FOR 400 MILLION SDSS SOURCES

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lang, Dustin; Hogg, David W.; Schlegel, David J., E-mail: dstndstn@gmail.com

2016-02-15

We present photometry of images from the Wide-Field Infrared Survey Explorer (WISE) of over 400 million sources detected by the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS). We use a “forced photometry” technique, using measured SDSS source positions, star–galaxy classification, and galaxy profiles to define the sources whose fluxes are to be measured in the WISE images. We perform photometry with The Tractor image modeling code, working on our “unWISE” coaddds and taking account of the WISE point-spread function and a noise model. The result is a measurement of the flux of each SDSS source in each WISE band. Many sources havemore » little flux in the WISE bands, so often the measurements we report are consistent with zero given our uncertainties. However, for many sources we get 3σ or 4σ measurements; these sources would not be reported by the “official” WISE pipeline and will not appear in the WISE catalog, yet they can be highly informative for some scientific questions. In addition, these small-signal measurements can be used in stacking analyses at the catalog level. The forced photometry approach has the advantage that we measure a consistent set of sources between SDSS and WISE, taking advantage of the resolution and depth of the SDSS images to interpret the WISE images; objects that are resolved in SDSS but blended together in WISE still have accurate measurements in our photometry. Our results, and the code used to produce them, are publicly available at http://unwise.me.« less

The Gemini/HST Galaxy Cluster Project: Redshift 0.2–1.0 Cluster Sample, X-Ray Data, and Optical Photometry Catalog

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jørgensen, Inger; Chiboucas, Kristin; Hibon, Pascale; Nielsen, Louise D.; Takamiya, Marianne

2018-04-01

The Gemini/HST Galaxy Cluster Project (GCP) covers 14 z = 0.2–1.0 clusters with X-ray luminosity of {L}500≥slant {10}44 {erg} {{{s}}}-1 in the 0.1–2.4 keV band. In this paper, we provide homogeneously calibrated X-ray luminosities, masses, and radii, and we present the complete catalog of the ground-based photometry for the GCP clusters. The clusters were observed with either Gemini North or South in three or four of the optical passbands g‧, r‧, i‧, and z‧. The photometric catalog includes consistently calibrated total magnitudes, colors, and geometrical parameters. The photometry reaches ≈25 mag in the passband closest to the rest-frame B band. We summarize comparisons of our photometry with data from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. We describe the sample selection for our spectroscopic observations, and establish the calibrations to obtain rest-frame magnitudes and colors. Finally, we derive the color–magnitude relations for the clusters, and briefly discuss these in the context of evolution with redshift. Consistent with our results based on spectroscopic data, the color–magnitude relations support passive evolution of the red sequence galaxies. The absence of change in the slope with redshift constrains the allowable age variation along the red sequence to <0.05 dex between the brightest cluster galaxies and those four magnitudes fainter. This paper serves as the main reference for the GCP cluster and galaxy selection, X-ray data, and ground-based photometry.

Type II Supernova Light Curves and Spectra from the CfA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hicken, Malcolm; Friedman, Andrew S.; Blondin, Stephane; Challis, Peter; Berlind, Perry; Calkins, Mike; Esquerdo, Gil; Matheson, Thomas; Modjaz, Maryam; Rest, Armin; Kirshner, Robert P.

2017-11-01

We present multiband photometry of 60 spectroscopically confirmed supernovae (SNe): 39 SNe II/IIP, 19 IIn, 1 IIb, and 1 that was originally classified as a IIn but later as a Ibn. Of these, 46 have only optical photometry, 6 have only near-infrared (NIR) photometry, and 8 have both optical and NIR. The median redshift of the sample is 0.016. We also present 195 optical spectra for 48 of the 60 SN. There are 26 optical and 2 NIR light curves of SNe II/IIP with redshifts z> 0.01, some of which may give rise to useful distances for cosmological applications. All photometry was obtained between 2000 and 2011 at the Fred Lawrence Whipple Observatory (FLWO), via the 1.2 m and 1.3 m PAIRITEL telescopes for the optical and NIR, respectively. Each SN was observed in a subset of the u\\prime {UBVRIr}\\prime I\\prime {{JHK}}s bands. There are a total of 2932 optical and 816 NIR light curve points. Optical spectra were obtained using the FLWO 1.5 m Tillinghast telescope with the FAST spectrograph and the MMT Telescope with the Blue Channel Spectrograph. Our photometry is in reasonable agreement with select samples from the literature: two-thirds of our star sequences have average V offsets within ±0.02 mag and roughly three-quarters of our light curves have average differences within ±0.04 mag. The data from this work and the literature will provide insight into SN II explosions, help with developing methods for photometric SN classification, and contribute to their use as cosmological distance indicators.

Exploring the IMF of star clusters: a joint SLUG and LEGUS effort

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ashworth, G.; Fumagalli, M.; Krumholz, M. R.; Adamo, A.; Calzetti, D.; Chandar, R.; Cignoni, M.; Dale, D.; Elmegreen, B. G.; Gallagher, J. S., III; Gouliermis, D. A.; Grasha, K.; Grebel, E. K.; Johnson, K. E.; Lee, J.; Tosi, M.; Wofford, A.

2017-08-01

We present the implementation of a Bayesian formalism within the Stochastically Lighting Up Galaxies (slug) stellar population synthesis code, which is designed to investigate variations in the initial mass function (IMF) of star clusters. By comparing observed cluster photometry to large libraries of clusters simulated with a continuously varying IMF, our formalism yields the posterior probability distribution function (PDF) of the cluster mass, age and extinction, jointly with the parameters describing the IMF. We apply this formalism to a sample of star clusters from the nearby galaxy NGC 628, for which broad-band photometry in five filters is available as part of the Legacy ExtraGalactic UV Survey (LEGUS). After allowing the upper-end slope of the IMF (α3) to vary, we recover PDFs for the mass, age and extinction that are broadly consistent with what is found when assuming an invariant Kroupa IMF. However, the posterior PDF for α3 is very broad due to a strong degeneracy with the cluster mass, and it is found to be sensitive to the choice of priors, particularly on the cluster mass. We find only a modest improvement in the constraining power of α3 when adding Hα photometry from the companion Hα-LEGUS survey. Conversely, Hα photometry significantly improves the age determination, reducing the frequency of multi-modal PDFs. With the aid of mock clusters, we quantify the degeneracy between physical parameters, showing how constraints on the cluster mass that are independent of photometry can be used to pin down the IMF properties of star clusters.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: 2014-2017 photometry for ASASSN-13db (Sicilia-Aguilar+, 2017)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sicilia-Aguilar, A.; Oprandi, A.; Froebrich, D.; Fang, M.; Prieto, J. L.; Stanek, K.; Scholz, A.; Kochanek, C. S.; Henning, T.; Gredel, R.; Holoien, T. S. W.; Rabus, M.; Shappee, B. J.; Billington, S. J.; Campbell-White, J.; Zegmott, T. J.

2017-08-01

Table 1 contains the full photometry from the All Sky Automated Survey for Supernovae (ASAS-SN) for the variable star ASASSN-13db. Detections with their errors and 5-sigma upper limits are given. Upper limits are marked by the "<" sign and have the error column set to 99.99. (1 data file).

The study of comets, part 1. [conference on photometry and spectrum analysis of Kohoutek comet and comet tails

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Donn, B. (Editor); Mumma, M. J. (Editor); Jackson, W. M. (Editor); Ahearn, M. (Editor); Harrington, R. (Editor)

1976-01-01

Papers are presented dealing with observations of comets. Topic discussed include: photometry, polarimetry, and astrometry of comets; detection of water and molecular transitions in comets; ion motions in comet tails; determination of comet brightness and luminosity; and evolution of cometary orbits. Emphasis is placed on analysis of observations of comet Kohoutek.

The Araucaria Project. The Distance to the Sculptor Group Galaxy NGC 7793 from Near-infrared Photometry of Cepheid Variables

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zgirski, Bartlomiej; Pietrzyński, Grzegorz; Wielgorski, Piotr

Following the earlier discovery of classical Cepheid variables in the Sculptor Group spiral galaxy NGC 7793 from an optical wide-field imaging survey, we have performed deep near-infrared J - and K -band follow-up photometry of a subsample of these Cepheids to derive the distance to this galaxy with a higher accuracy than what was possible from optical photometry alone, by minimizing the effects of reddening and metallicity on the distance result. Combining our new near-infrared period–luminosity relations with previous optical photometry, we obtain a true distance modulus to NGC 7793 of (27.66 ± 0.04) mag (statistical) ±0.07 mag (systematic), i.e.,more » a distance of (3.40 ± 0.17) Mpc. We also determine the mean reddening affecting the Cepheids to be E(B − V) = (0.08 ± 0.02) mag, demonstrating that there is significant dust extinction intrinsic to the galaxy in addition to the small foreground extinction. A comparison of the new, improved Cepheid distance to earlier distance determinations of NGC 7793 from the Tully–Fisher and TRGB methods is in agreement within the reported uncertainties of these previous measurements.« less

ARCHANGEL: Galaxy Photometry System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schombert, James

2011-07-01

ARCHANGEL is a Unix-based package for the surface photometry of galaxies. While oriented for large angular size systems (i.e. many pixels), its tools can be applied to any imaging data of any size. The package core contains routines to perform the following critical galaxy photometry functions: sky determination; frame cleaning; ellipse fitting; profile fitting; and total and isophotal magnitudes. The goal of the package is to provide an automated, assembly-line type of reduction system for galaxy photometry of space-based or ground-based imaging data. The procedures outlined in the documentation are flux independent, thus, these routines can be used for non-optical data as well as typical imaging datasets. ARCHANGEL has been tested on several current OS's (RedHat Linux, Ubuntu Linux, Solaris, Mac OS X). A tarball for installation is available at the download page. The main routines are Python and FORTRAN based, therefore, a current installation of Python and a FORTRAN compiler are required. The ARCHANGEL package also contains Python hooks to the PGPLOT package, an XML processor and network tools which automatically link to data archives (i.e. NED, HST, 2MASS, etc) to download images in a non-interactive manner.

The Carnegie Supernova Project. I. Third Photometry Data Release of Low-redshift Type Ia Supernovae and Other White Dwarf Explosions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krisciunas, Kevin; Contreras, Carlos; Burns, Christopher R.; Phillips, M. M.; Stritzinger, Maximilian D.; Morrell, Nidia; Hamuy, Mario; Anais, Jorge; Boldt, Luis; Busta, Luis; Campillay, Abdo; Castellón, Sergio; Folatelli, Gastón; Freedman, Wendy L.; González, Consuelo; Hsiao, Eric Y.; Krzeminski, Wojtek; Persson, Sven Eric; Roth, Miguel; Salgado, Francisco; Serón, Jacqueline; Suntzeff, Nicholas B.; Torres, Simón; Filippenko, Alexei V.; Li, Weidong; Madore, Barry F.; DePoy, D. L.; Marshall, Jennifer L.; Rheault, Jean-Philippe; Villanueva, Steven

2017-11-01

We present final natural-system optical (ugriBV) and near-infrared (YJH) photometry of 134 supernovae (SNe) with probable white dwarf progenitors that were observed in 2004-2009 as part of the first stage of the Carnegie Supernova Project (CSP-I). The sample consists of 123 Type Ia SNe, 5 Type Iax SNe, 2 super-Chandrasekhar SN candidates, 2 Type Ia SNe interacting with circumstellar matter, and 2 SN 2006bt-like events. The redshifts of the objects range from z=0.0037 to 0.0835; the median redshift is 0.0241. For 120 (90%) of these SNe, near-infrared photometry was obtained. Average optical extinction coefficients and color terms are derived and demonstrated to be stable during the five CSP-I observing campaigns. Measurements of the CSP-I near-infrared bandpasses are also described, and near-infrared color terms are estimated through synthetic photometry of stellar atmosphere models. Optical and near-infrared magnitudes of local sequences of tertiary standard stars for each supernova are given, and a new calibration of Y-band magnitudes of the Persson et al. standards in the CSP-I natural system is presented.

Spectral photometry of extreme helium stars: Ultraviolet fluxes and effective temperature

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Drilling, J. S.; Schoenberner, D.; Heber, U.; Lynas-Gray, A. E.

1982-01-01

Ultraviolet flux distributions are presented for the extremely helium rich stars BD +10 deg 2179, HD 124448, LSS 3378, BD -9 deg 4395, LSE 78, HD 160641, LSIV -1 deg 2, BD 1 deg 3438, HD 168476, MV Sgr, LS IV-14 deg 109 (CD -35 deg 11760), LSII +33 deg 5 and BD +1 deg 4381 (LSIV +2 deg 13) obtained with the International Ultraviolet Explorer (IUE). Broad band photometry and a newly computed grid of line blanketed model atmospheres were used to determine accurate angular diameters and total stellar fluxes. The resultant effective temperatures are in most cases in satisfactory agreement with those based on broad band photometry and/or high resolution spectroscopy in the visible. For two objects, LSII +33 deg 5 and LSE 78, disagreement was found between the IUE observations and broadband photometry: the colors predict temperatures around 20,000 K, whereas the UV spectra indicate much lower photospheric temperatures of 14,000 to 15,000 K. The new temperature scale for extreme helium stars extends to lower effective temperatures than that of Heber and Schoenberner (1981) and covers the range from 8,500 K to 32,000 K.

The Araucaria Project. The Distance to the Sculptor Group Galaxy NGC 7793 from Near-infrared Photometry of Cepheid Variables

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zgirski, Bartlomiej; Gieren, Wolfgang; Pietrzyński, Grzegorz; Karczmarek, Paulina; Gorski, Marek; Wielgorski, Piotr; Narloch, Weronika; Graczyk, Dariusz; Kudritzki, Rolf-Peter; Bresolin, Fabio

2017-10-01

Following the earlier discovery of classical Cepheid variables in the Sculptor Group spiral galaxy NGC 7793 from an optical wide-field imaging survey, we have performed deep near-infrared J- and K-band follow-up photometry of a subsample of these Cepheids to derive the distance to this galaxy with a higher accuracy than what was possible from optical photometry alone, by minimizing the effects of reddening and metallicity on the distance result. Combining our new near-infrared period-luminosity relations with previous optical photometry, we obtain a true distance modulus to NGC 7793 of (27.66 ± 0.04) mag (statistical) ±0.07 mag (systematic), I.e., a distance of (3.40 ± 0.17) Mpc. We also determine the mean reddening affecting the Cepheids to be E(B - V) = (0.08 ± 0.02) mag, demonstrating that there is significant dust extinction intrinsic to the galaxy in addition to the small foreground extinction. A comparison of the new, improved Cepheid distance to earlier distance determinations of NGC 7793 from the Tully-Fisher and TRGB methods is in agreement within the reported uncertainties of these previous measurements.

Astronomical Research at the U.S. Air Force Academy Observatory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Della-Rose, Devin J.; Carlson, Randall E.; Chun, Francis K.; Giblin, Timothy W.; Novotny, Steven J.; Polsgrove, Daniel E.

2018-01-01

The U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) Observatory houses 61-cm and 41-cm Ritchey-Chrétien (RC) reflecting telescopes, and serves as the hub for a world-wide network of 50-cm RC reflectors known as the Falcon Telescope Network (FTN). Since the 1970s, the USAFA Observatory has hosted a wide range of student and faculty research projects including variable star photometry, exoplanet light curve and radial velocity studies, near-Earth object astrometry, and “lucky imaging” of manmade spacecraft. Further, the FTN has been used extensively for LEO through GEO satellite photometry and spectroscopy, and for exoplanet photometry. Future capabilities of our observatory complex include fielding several new FTN observatory sites and the acquisition of a 1-meter RC fast-tracking telescope at the USAFA Observatory.

Herschel-PACS photometry of faint stars for sensitivity performance assessment and establishment of faint FIR primary photometric standards

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Klaas, U.; Balog, Z.; Nielbock, M.; Müller, T. G.; Linz, H.; Kiss, Cs.

2018-05-01

Aims: Our aims are to determine flux densities and their photometric accuracy for a set of seventeen stars that range in flux from intermediately bright (≲2.5 Jy) to faint (≳5 mJy) in the far-infrared (FIR). We also aim to derive signal-to-noise dependence with flux and time, and compare the results with predictions from the Herschel exposure-time calculation tool. Methods: We obtain aperture photometry from Herschel-PACS high-pass-filtered scan maps and chop/nod observations of the faint stars. The issues of detection limits and sky confusion noise are addressed by comparison of the field-of-view at different wavelengths, by multi-aperture photometry, by special processing of the maps to preserve extended emission, and with the help of large-scale absolute sky brightness maps from AKARI. This photometry is compared with flux-density predictions based on photospheric models for these stars. We obtain a robust noise estimate by fitting the flux distribution per map pixel histogram for the area around the stars, scaling it for the applied aperture size and correcting for noise correlation. Results: For 15 stars we obtain reliable photometry in at least one PACS filter, and for 11 stars we achieve this in all three PACS filters (70, 100, 160 μm). Faintest fluxes, for which the photometry still has good quality, are about 10-20 mJy with scan map photometry. The photometry of seven stars is consistent with models or flux predictions for pure photospheric emission, making them good primary standard candidates. Two stars exhibit source-intrinsic far-infrared excess: β Gem (Pollux), being the host star of a confirmed Jupiter-size exoplanet, due to emission of an associated dust disk, and η Dra due to dust emission in a binary system with a K1 dwarf. The investigation of the 160 μm sky background and environment of four sources reveals significant sky confusion prohibiting the determination of an accurate stellar flux at this wavelength. As a good model approximation, for nine stars we obtain scaling factors of the continuum flux models of four PACS fiducial standards with the same or quite similar spectral type. We can verify a linear dependence of signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) with flux and with square root of time over significant ranges. At 160 μm the latter relation is, however, affected by confusion noise. Conclusions: The PACS faint star sample has allowed a comprehensive sensitivity assessment of the PACS photometer. Accurate photometry allows us to establish a set of five FIR primary standard candidates, namely α Ari, ɛ Lep, ω Cap, HD 41047 and 42 Dra, which are 2-20 times fainter than the faintest PACS fiducial standard (γ Dra) with absolute accuracy of <6%. For three of these primary standard candidates, essential stellar parameters are known, meaning that a dedicated flux model code may be run. Herschel is an ESA space observatory with science instruments provided by European-led Principal Investigator consortia and with important participation from NASA.Tables A.3 to A.5 and B.1 to B.3 are only available in electronic form at the CDS via anonymous ftp to cdsarc.u-strasbg.fr (http://130.79.128.5) or via http://cdsarc.u-strasbg.fr/viz-bin/qcat?J/A+A/613/A40

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Low-mass stars in 25 Ori group and Orion OB1a (Suarez+, 2017)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suarez, G.; Downes, J. J.; Roman-Zuniga, C.; Covey, K. R.; Tapia, M.; Hernandez, J.; Petr-Gotzens, M. G.; Stassun, K. G.; Briceno, C.

2017-09-01

The V, R, and I photometry used in this work was obtained from the Centro de Investigaciones de Astronomia (CIDA) Deep Survey of Orion (CDSO) catalog (Downes et al. 2014, Cat. J/MNRAS/444/1793), which was constructed by coadding the multi-epoch optical observations from the CIDA Variability Survey of Orion (CVSO; Briceno et al. 2005, Cat. J/AJ/129/907). The sensitivity limits of the CDSO covers the Low-Mass Star (LMS) and Brown Dwarf (BD) population of 25 Ori and its surroundings within the region 79.7°<~α<~82.7° and 0.35°<~δ<~3.35°. The limiting magnitude of the CDSO photometry in this region is Ilim=22 and the completeness magnitude is Icom=19.6 (Downes et al. 2014, Cat. J/MNRAS/444/1793), enough to ensure an I-band detection even for the faintest targets of our spectroscopic sample (I{approx}17.0). Additionally, we used the u, g, r, i, and z photometry from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) catalog (Finkbeiner et al. 2004AJ....128.2577F; Ahn et al. 2012, Cat. V/139). These values are listed in Table1. The Z, Y, J, H, and Ks near-infrared photometry used in this study was carried out by Petr-Gotzens et al. (2011Msngr.145...29P) as part of the Visible and Infrared Survey Telescope for Astronomy (VISTA) science verification surveys (Arnaboldi et al. 2010Msngr.139....6A). The 5σ limiting magnitudes of the VISTA survey of the Orion star-forming region are Z=22.5, Y=21.2, J=20.4, H=19.4, and Ks=18.6, which are enough to have VISTA photometry even for the faintest objects in our spectroscopic sample (J{approx}15.0). Additionally, we used near-infrared photometry from the 2MASS catalog (Cutri et al. 2003, Cat. II/246) and mid-infrared photometry from IRAC-Spitzer (Hernandez et al. 2007, Cat. J/ApJ/671/1784) and the AllWISE catalog (Cutri et al. 2013, Cat. II/328). This infrared photometry is listed in Table1. The spectra used in this paper were obtained as part of the Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey (BOSS; Dawson et al. 2013AJ....145...10D), which is one of the four main surveys of SDSS (York et al. 2000AJ....120.1579Y) in its third phase (SDSS-III; Eisenstein et al. 2011AJ....142...72E). The BOSS spectrograph has plates with 1000 fibers of 2'' diameter spanning a field of view of 3.0° in diameter and covering a wavelength range from 3560Å to 10400Å with a resolution of R=1560 at 3700Å and R=2650 at 9000Å (Gunn et al. 2006AJ....131.2332G; Smee et al. 2013AJ....146...32S). (4 data files).

Infrared Photometry for Automated Telescopes: Passband Selection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Milone, Gene; Young, Andrew T.

2011-03-01

The high precision that photometry in the near and intermediate infrared region can provide has not been achieved, partly because of technical challenges (including cryogenics, which most IR detectors require), and partly because the filters in common use are not optimized to avoid water-vapor absorptions, which are the principal impediment to precise ground-based IR photometry. We review the IRWG filters that achieve this goal, and the trials that were undertaken to demonstrate their superiority. We focus especially on the near IR set and, for high elevation sites, the passbands in the N window. We also discuss the price to be paid for the improved precision, in the form of lower throughput, and why it should be paid: to achieve not only higher precision (i.e., improved signal-to-noise ratio), but also lower extinction, thus producing higher accuracy in extra-atmospheric magnitudes. The edges of the IRWG passbands are not defined by the edges of the atmospheric windows: therefore, they admit no flux from these (constantly varying) edges. The throughput cost and the lack of a large body of data already obtained in these passbands are principal reasons why the IRWG filters are not in wide use at observatories around the world that currently do IR work. Yet a measure of the signal-to-noise ratio varies inversely with both extinction and with a measure of the Forbes effect. So, the small loss of raw throughput is recouped in signal-to-noise gain. We illustrate these points with passbands of both near and intermediate IR passbands. There is also the matter of cost for small production runs of these filters; reduced costs can be realized through bulk orders with uniform filter specifications. As a consequence, the near-IR IRWG passbands offer the prospect of being able to do photometry in those passbands at both high and low elevation sites that are capable of supporting precise photometry, thereby freeing infrared photometry from the need to access exclusively high and dry elevation sites, although photometry done at those sites can also benefit from improved accuracy and transformability. We suggest that if the IRWG passbands are made available, they will be used! New automated systems making use of these passbands have the advantage of establishing the system more widely, creating a larger body of data to which future observations will be fully transformable, and will be cheaper to purchase. This work has been supported in part by grants to EFM by the Canadian Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council.

The orbital period of the dwarf nova AF Camelopardalis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Szkody, Paula; Howell, Steve B.

1989-04-01

Time-resolved optical spectroscopy of the dwarf nova AF Cam for 4.5 hr during a decline from outburst reveals that the orbital period is relatively long (5-6 hr). CCD photometry at quiescence also supports this finding. This rules out the previously observed 67-76 min modulations (evident in IR photometric measurements at quiescence and optical photometry at outburst) as orbital in nature.

Satellite Photometric Error Determination

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-10-18

the GEO Color Photometry Catalog (GCPC) that tried to remedy some of the problems listed above for geostationary satellites. In particular, we... Geostationary objects over the continental US  Develop new feature extraction methods such as albedo-area measurements  Understanding of seasonal...Fig. 4 and Fig. 5, there are examples of color photometry signatures for a 3-axis stabilized geostationary satellite. The data were taken with a

Spectral Measurements of Geosynchronous Satellites During Glint Season

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-01-01

the satellite solar panels and has been observed in the past using broadband photometry techniques. In this paper, we present the first observations... photometry . We believe that these small-scale features can be exploited to discern satellite features such as solar panel orientation and secondary...Spectral Measurements of Geosynchronous Satellites During Glint Season Ryan M. Tucker, Evan M. Weld, Francis K. Chun, and Roger D. Tippets

Invited Talk: Photometry of Bright Variable Stars with the BRITE Constellation Nano-Satellites: Opportunities for Amateur Astronomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guinan, E. F.

2014-06-01

(Abstract only) The BRIght Target Explorer (BRITE) is a joint Austrian-Canadian-Polish Astronomy mission to carry out high precision photometry of bright (mv < 4 mag.) variable stars. BRITE consists of a "Constellation" of 20 × 20 × 20-cm nano-satellite cubes equipped with wide field (20 × 24 deg.) CCD cameras, control systems, solar panels, onboard computers, and so on. The first two (of up to six) satellites were successfully launched during February 2013. After post-launch commissioning, science operations commenced during October 2013. The primary goals are to carry out continuous multi-color (currently blue and red filters) high-precision millimag (mmag) photometry in particular locations in the sky. Typically these pointings will last for two to four months and secure simultaneous blue/red photometry of bright variable stars within the field. The first science pointing is centered on the Orion region. Since most bright stars are intrinsically luminous, hot O/B stars, giants, and supergiants will be the most common targets. However, some bright eclipsing binaries (such as Algol, b Lyr, e Aur) and a few chromospherically-active RS CVn stars (such as Capella) may be eventually be monitored. The BRITE-Constellation program of high precision, two color photometry of bright stars offers a great opportunity to study a wide range of stellar astrophysical problems. Bright stars offer convenient laboratories to study many current and important problems in stellar astrophysics. These include probing stellar interiors and pulsation in pulsating stars, tests of stellar evolution and structure for Cepheids and other luminous stars. To scientifically enhance the BRITE science returns, the BRITE investigators are very interested in securing contemporaneous ground-based spectroscopy and standardized photometry of target stars. The BRITE Ground Based Observations Team is coordinating ground-based observing efforts for BRITE targets. The team helps coordinate collaborations with amateur and professional astronomer. The ground-based coordinators are: Thomas Eversberg (thomas.eversberg@dlr.de) and, for spectroscopy, Contanze Zwintz (konstanze@ster.kuleuven.be). Detailed information about the BRITE Mission is provided at: www.brite-contellation.at.

Improving Kepler Pipeline Sensitivity with Pixel Response Function Photometry.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Morris, Robert L.; Bryson, Steve; Jenkins, Jon Michael; Smith, Jeffrey C

2014-06-01

We present the results of our investigation into the feasibility and expected benefits of implementing PRF-fitting photometry in the Kepler Science Processing Pipeline. The Kepler Pixel Response Function (PRF) describes the expected system response to a point source at infinity and includes the effects of the optical point spread function, the CCD detector responsivity function, and spacecraft pointing jitter. Planet detection in the Kepler pipeline is currently based on simple aperture photometry (SAP), which is most effective when applied to uncrowded bright stars. Its effectiveness diminishes rapidly as target brightness decreases relative to the effects of noise sources such as detector electronics, background stars, and image motion. In contrast, PRF photometry is based on fitting an explicit model of image formation to the data and naturally accounts for image motion and contributions of background stars. The key to obtaining high-quality photometry from PRF fitting is a high-quality model of the system's PRF, while the key to efficiently processing the large number of Kepler targets is an accurate catalog and accurate mapping of celestial coordinates onto the focal plane. If the CCD coordinates of stellar centroids are known a priori then the problem of PRF fitting becomes linear. A model of the Kepler PRF was constructed at the time of spacecraft commissioning by fitting piecewise polynomial surfaces to data from dithered full frame images. While this model accurately captured the initial state of the system, the PRF has evolved dynamically since then and has been seen to deviate significantly from the initial (static) model. We construct a dynamic PRF model which is then used to recover photometry for all targets of interest. Both simulation tests and results from Kepler flight data demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach. Kepler was selected as the 10th mission of the Discovery Program. Funding for this mission is provided by NASA’s Science Mission Directorate.Kepler was selected as the 10th mission of the Discovery Program. Funding for this mission is provided by NASA’s Science Mission Directorate.

APASS Landolt-Sloan BVgri Photometry of RAVE Stars. I. Data, Effective Temperatures, and Reddenings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Munari, U.; Henden, A.; Frigo, A.; Zwitter, T.; Bienaymé, O.; Bland-Hawthorn, J.; Boeche, C.; Freeman, K. C.; Gibson, B. K.; Gilmore, G.; Grebel, E. K.; Helmi, A.; Kordopatis, G.; Levine, S. E.; Navarro, J. F.; Parker, Q. A.; Reid, W.; Seabroke, G. M.; Siebert, A.; Siviero, A.; Smith, T. C.; Steinmetz, M.; Templeton, M.; Terrell, D.; Welch, D. L.; Williams, M.; Wyse, R. F. G.

2014-11-01

We provide AAVSO Photometric All-Sky Survey (APASS) photometry in the Landolt BV and Sloan g'r'i' bands for all 425,743 stars included in the fourth RAVE Data Release. The internal accuracy of the APASS photometry of RAVE stars, expressed as the error of the mean of data obtained and separately calibrated over a median of four distinct observing epochs and distributed between 2009 and 2013, is 0.013, 0.012, 0.012, 0.014, and 0.021 mag for the B, V, g', r', and i' bands, respectively. The equally high external accuracy of APASS photometry has been verified on secondary Landolt and Sloan photometric standard stars not involved in the APASS calibration process and on a large body of literature data on field and cluster stars, confirming the absence of offsets and trends. Compared with the Carlsberg Meridian Catalog (CMC-15), APASS astrometry of RAVE stars is accurate to a median value of 0.098 arcsec. Brightness distribution functions for the RAVE stars have been derived in all bands. APASS photometry of RAVE stars, augmented by 2MASS JHK infrared data, has been χ2 fitted to a densely populated synthetic photometric library designed to widely explore temperature, surface gravity, metallicity, and reddening. Resulting T eff and E B - V , computed over a range of options, are provided and discussed, and will be kept updated in response to future APASS and RAVE data releases. In the process, we find that the reddening caused by a homogeneous slab of dust, extending for 140 pc on either side of the Galactic plane and responsible for EpolesB-V = 0.036 ± 0.002 at the Galactic poles, is a suitable approximation of the actual reddening encountered at Galactic latitudes |b| >= 25°.

Near-infrared Thermal Emission Detections of a Number of Hot Jupiters and the Systematics of Ground-based Near-infrared Photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Croll, Bryce; Albert, Loic; Jayawardhana, Ray; Cushing, Michael; Moutou, Claire; Lafreniere, David; Johnson, John Asher; Bonomo, Aldo S.; Deleuil, Magali; Fortney, Jonathan

2015-03-01

We present detections of the near-infrared thermal emission of three hot Jupiters and one brown dwarf using the Wide-field Infrared Camera (WIRCam) on the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope (CFHT). These include Ks-band secondary eclipse detections of the hot Jupiters WASP-3b and Qatar-1b and the brown dwarf KELT-1b. We also report Y-band, K CONT-band, and two new and one reanalyzed Ks-band detections of the thermal emission of the hot Jupiter WASP-12b. We present a new reduction pipeline for CFHT/WIRCam data, which is optimized for high precision photometry. We also describe novel techniques for constraining systematic errors in ground-based near-infrared photometry, so as to return reliable secondary eclipse depths and uncertainties. We discuss the noise properties of our ground-based photometry for wavelengths spanning the near-infrared (the YJHK bands), for faint and bright stars, and for the same object on several occasions. For the hot Jupiters WASP-3b and WASP-12b we demonstrate the repeatability of our eclipse depth measurements in the Ks band; we therefore place stringent limits on the systematics of ground-based, near-infrared photometry, and also rule out violent weather changes in the deep, high pressure atmospheres of these two hot Jupiters at the epochs of our observations. Based on observations obtained with WIRCam, a joint project of Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope (CFHT), Taiwan, Korea, Canada, France, at the CFHT, which is operated by the National Research Council (NRC) of Canada, the Institute National des Sciences de l'Univers of the Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique of France, and the University of Hawaii.

Improved moving source photometry with TRIPPy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alexandersen, Mike; Fraser, Wesley Cristopher

2017-10-01

Photometry of moving sources is more complicated than for stationary sources, because the sources trail their signal out over more pixels than a point source of the same magnitude. Using a circular aperture of same size as would be appropriate for point sources can cut out a large amount of flux if a moving source moves substantially relative to the size of the aperture during the exposure, resulting in underestimated fluxes. Using a large circular aperture can mitigate this issue at the cost of a significantly reduced signal to noise compared to a point source, as a result of the inclusion of a larger background region within the aperture.Trailed Image Photometry in Python (TRIPPy) solves this problem by using a pill-shaped aperture: the traditional circular aperture is sliced in half perpendicular to the direction of motion and separated by a rectangle as long as the total motion of the source during the exposure. TRIPPy can also calculate the appropriate aperture correction (which will depend both on the radius and trail length of the pill-shaped aperture), and has features for selecting good PSF stars, creating a PSF model (convolved moffat profile + lookup table) and selecting a custom sky-background area in order to ensure no other sources contribute to the background estimate.In this poster, we present an overview of the TRIPPy features and demonstrate the improvements resulting from using TRIPPy compared to photometry obtained by other methods with examples from real projects where TRIPPy has been implemented in order to obtain the best-possible photometric measurements of Solar System objects. While TRIPPy has currently mainly been used for Trans-Neptunian Objects, the improvement from using the pill-shaped aperture increases with source motion, making TRIPPy highly relevant for asteroid and centaur photometry as well.

Color-magnitude Diagrams for the Stellar Open Cluster M 67 in theVilnius Photometric System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boyle, Richard P.; Janusz, Robert

2015-01-01

Stellar photometry in the Vilnius Photometric System requires one percent quality for deriving luminosity class and spectral type subclass. We use such existing photometry of the open cluster M 67 to calibrate new CCD observations at the Vatican Advanced Technology Telescope (VATT) for correcting the flat-fielding zero-point and deriving the color-transformation in this intermediate-band, seven filter system (Boyle et al., BAAS 37 #4, 2005).Recently we have developed a "tie-in" observational practice to apply the zero-point and color transformation of the M 67 observations to neighboring starfields of interest that have no existing photometry. Sky transparency must remain constant to better than one percent during a round of short exposures in a filter between the field having calibrated photometry and the new field having no photometry as if the new field was exposed simultaneously with the master field.Proof of success for this "tie-in" method is shown with the master field being M 67 and the "tie-in" field being the nearby extended "corona" area. The distinctive color-magnitude diagrams of the old open clusterM 67 reveal the sensitivity to having constant sky transparency during the round of short exposures on M 67 and its extended area. For the extended area has the same form in its color-magnitude diagram as M 67. So variation in sky transparency shows displacement on the color-magnitude diagrams at the one percent quality.We will attempt new analysis concerning evolution of this very old open cluster (2.56 Gyr, WEBDA, http://www.univie.ac.at/webda/) and the surrounding "coronal" extent with reference to previous work by Chupina and Vereshchagin (Astron. Astrophys, 334, 552, 1998).

B And V Photometry Of A Inverted-spectrum And Flat-spectrum Radio Sources With The Rowan 0.4-meter Telescope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guerra, Erick; Pultar, R.

2010-05-01

Several galaxies have been selected for an exploratory campaign with 0.4-meter telescope atop Science Hall at Rowan University. These galaxies exhibit inverted radio spectra on the basis of fluxes in the GB6 and VLA FIRST catalogs and have SDSS magnitudes in g-band less than 15.5. The results of V and R band photometry of theses galaxies are presented. Photometry from multiple nights will be examined to explore variability on the timescales of days or weeks. Targets in the sample include Markarian 668 and NGC 5635. These are the first results from an ongoing campaign to expand the function of the observatory atop Science Hall. The authors would like to acknowledge Ric and Jean Edelman for their gift that funded the 0.4-meter telescope.

Absolute stellar photometry on moderate-resolution FPA images

USGS Publications Warehouse

Stone, T.C.

2009-01-01

An extensive database of star (and Moon) images has been collected by the ground-based RObotic Lunar Observatory (ROLO) as part of the US Geological Survey program for lunar calibration. The stellar data are used to derive nightly atmospheric corrections for the observations from extinction measurements, and absolute calibration of the ROLO sensors is based on observations of Vega and published reference flux and spectrum data. The ROLO telescopes were designed for imaging the Moon at moderate resolution, thus imposing some limitations for the stellar photometry. Attaining accurate stellar photometry with the ROLO image data has required development of specialized processing techniques. A key consideration is consistency in discriminating the star core signal from the off-axis point spread function. The analysis and processing methods applied to the ROLO stellar image database are described. ?? 2009 BIPM and IOP Publishing Ltd.

HST FUV/NUV Photometry of the Putative Binary Companion to the SN 1993J Progenitor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miles, Nathan; Fox, Ori; Azalee Bostroem, K.; Zheng, WeiKang; Graham, Melissa; Van Dyk, Schuyler D.; Filippenko, Alexei V.; Matheson, Thomas; Dwarkadas, Vikram; Fransson, Claes; Smith, Nathan; Brink, Thomas

2018-06-01

A previous analysis of HST/COS spectra from 2012 revealed an FUV excess consistent with the presence of the hypothetical B-star companion to the SN 1993J progenitor. The spectrum, however, had low signal-to-noise and was blended with several other nearby stars within the 2.5 arcsec COS aperture. Since that time, the SN has sufficiently faded allowing for more accurate photometry to be performed. Here we present follow-up HST FUV/NUV imaging using the F140LP filter on ACS/SBC and the F218W, F275W, and F336W filters on WFC3/UVIS. This photometry isolates the UV flux from only the putative companion. We will discuss whether this new evidence removes all ambiguity about the nature of the companion once and for all.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: UBVI CCD photometry of Carina region stars (Molina-Lera+, 2016)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Molina-Lera, J. A.; Baume, G.; Gamen, R.; Costa, E.; Carraro, G.

2016-08-01

Photometric parameters for 62730 stars in the carina region covering 6 stellar clusters (NGC 3752, Trumpler 18, NGC 3590, Hogg 10, 11 and 12) and the surrounding field. The photometry was secured in March 2006 and March 2009 with the Y4KCAM camera attached to the Cerro Tololo Inter American Observatory (CTIO, Chile) 1.0-m telescope. (1 data file).

VizieR Online Data Catalog: 76 T dwarfs from the UKIDSS LAS (Burningham+, 2013)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burningham, B.; Cardoso, C. V.; Smith, L.; Leggett, S. K.; Smart, R. L.; Mann, A. W.; Dhital, S.; Lucas, P. W.; Tinney, C. G.; Pinfield, D. J.; Zhang, Z.; Morley, C.; Saumon, D.; Aller, K.; Littlefair, S. P.; Homeier, D.; Lodieu, N.; Deacon, N.; Marley, M. S.; van Spaandonk, L.; Baker, D.; Allard, F.; Andrei, A. H.; Canty, J.; Clarke, J.; Day-Jones, A. C.; Dupuy, T.; Fortney, J. J.; Gomes, J.; Ishii, M.; Jones, H. R. A.; Liu, M.; Magazzu, A.; Marocco, F.; Murray, D. N.; Rojas-Ayala, B.; Tamura, M.

2014-07-01

Our broad-band NIR photometry was obtained using the UKIRT Fast Track Imager (UFTI) and WFCAM, both mounted on UKIRT across a number of observing runs spanning 2009 to the end of 2010. Differential methane photometry was obtained using the Near Infrared Camera Spectrometer (NICS) mounted on the TNG under programme AOT22 TAC 96 spanning from 2010 to 2012. (5 data files).

USNO CCD Astrograph Catalog (UCAC) - Naval Oceanography Portal

Science.gov Websites

are here: Home › USNO › Astrometry › Optical/IR Products › UCAC USNO Logo USNO Navigation Optical/IR Products NOMAD UCAC URAT USNO-B1.0 Double Stars Solar System Bodies USNO Image and Catalog 2MASS near-IR photometry (as in previous releases) UCAC4 now includes APASS 5-band photometry. The APASS

Optical photometry of TX0506+056

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Keel, William; Santander, Marcos

2017-10-01

The blazar TX0506+056 has attracted recent attention through its location in the error box of a high-energy Ice Cube neutrino detection (https://gcn.gsfc.nasa.gov/gcn3/21916.gcn3) and gamma-ray flaring (Atel #10791) We report recent photometry of TX0506+056 obtained in Johnson V and Cousins R passbands using the 1-meter Kapteyn telescope at La Palma, operated remotely by the SARA consortium.

CCD Photometer Installed on the Telescope - 600 OF the Shamakhy Astrophysical Observatory II. The Technique of Observation and Data Processing of CCD Photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abdullayev, B. I.; Gulmaliyev, N. I.; Majidova, S. O.; Mikayilov, Kh. M.; Rustamov, B. N.

2009-12-01

Basic technical characteristics of CCD matrix U-47 made by the Apogee Alta Instruments Inc. are provided. Short description and features of various noises introduced by optical system and CCD camera are presented. The technique of getting calibration frames: bias, dark, flat field and main stages of processing of results CCD photometry are described.

Luminosities and temperatures of M dwarf stars from infrared photometry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Veeder, G. J.

1974-01-01

Bolometric magnitudes for a large number of M type dwarf stars, obtained by broadband infrared photometry at 1.65, 2.2, and 3.5 microns, are reviewed. The data obtained indicate that one parameter is sufficient to describe the blanketing in all of the UBVRI bands for all types of M dwarfs. In general, late M dwarfs seem to have lower effective temperatures than are predicted by theoretical models.

The Membership and Distance of the Open Cluster Collinder 419

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-09-01

distance based upon new spectral classifications of the brighter members, UBV photometry , and an analysis of astrometric and photometric data from the... photometry of the fainter cluster members in Section 4. Our results are summarized in Section 5. 2. SPECTROSCOPY AND REDDENING OF THE BRIGHTER STARS...including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing

The VLT-FLAMES Tarantula Survey. XVI. The optical and NIR extinction laws in 30 Doradus and the photometric determination of the effective temperatures of OB stars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maíz Apellániz, J.; Evans, C. J.; Barbá, R. H.; Gräfener, G.; Bestenlehner, J. M.; Crowther, P. A.; García, M.; Herrero, A.; Sana, H.; Simón-Díaz, S.; Taylor, W. D.; van Loon, J. Th.; Vink, J. S.; Walborn, N. R.

2014-04-01

Context. The commonly used extinction laws of Cardelli et al. (1989, ApJ, 345, 245) have limitations that, among other issues, hamper the determination of the effective temperatures of O and early B stars from optical and near-infrared (NIR) photometry. Aims: We aim to develop a new family of extinction laws for 30 Doradus, check their general applicability within that region and elsewhere, and apply them to test the feasibility of using optical and NIR photometry to determine the effective temperature of OB stars. Methods: We use spectroscopy and NIR photometry from the VLT-FLAMES Tarantula Survey and optical photometry from HST/WFC3 of 30 Doradus and we analyze them with the software code CHORIZOS using different assumptions, such as the family of extinction laws. Results: We derive a new family of optical and NIR extinction laws for 30 Doradus and confirm its applicability to extinguished Galactic O-type systems. We conclude that by using the new extinction laws it is possible to measure the effective temperatures of OB stars with moderate uncertainties and only a small bias, at least up to E(4405-5495) ~ 1.5 mag. Appendices are available in electronic form at http://www.aanda.org

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ganeshalingam, Mohan; Li Weidong; Filippenko, Alexei V.

We present BVRI light curves of 165 Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia) from the Lick Observatory Supernova Search follow-up photometry program from 1998 through 2008. Our light curves are typically well sampled (cadence of 3-4 days) with an average of 21 photometry epochs. We describe our monitoring campaign and the photometry reduction pipeline that we have developed. Comparing our data set to that of Hicken et al., with which we have 69 overlapping supernovae (SNe), we find that as an ensemble the photometry is consistent, with only small overall systematic differences, although individual SNe may differ by as much asmore » 0.1 mag, and occasionally even more. Such disagreement in specific cases can have significant implications for combining future large data sets. We present an analysis of our light curves which includes template fits of light-curve shape parameters useful for calibrating SNe Ia as distance indicators. Assuming the B - V color of SNe Ia at 35 days past maximum light can be presented as the convolution of an intrinsic Gaussian component and a decaying exponential attributed to host-galaxy reddening, we derive an intrinsic scatter of {sigma} = 0.076 {+-} 0.019 mag, consistent with the Lira-Phillips law. This is the first of two papers, the second of which will present a cosmological analysis of the data presented herein.« less

Theory of wide-angle photometry from standard stars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Usher, Peter D.

1989-01-01

Wide angle celestial structures, such as bright comet tails and nearby galaxies and clusters of galaxies, rely on photographic methods for quantified morphology and photometry, primarily because electronic devices with comparable resolution and sky coverage are beyond current technological capability. The problem of the photometry of extended structures and of how this problem may be overcome through calibration by photometric standard stars is examined. The perfect properties of the ideal field of view are stated in the guise of a radiometric paraxial approximation, in the hope that fields of view of actual telescopes will conform. Fundamental radiometric concepts are worked through before the issue of atmospheric attenuation is addressed. The independence of observed atmospheric extinction and surface brightness leads off the quest for formal solutions to the problem of surface photometry. Methods and problems of solution are discussed. The spectre is confronted in the spirit of standard stars and shown to be chimerical in that light, provided certain rituals are adopted. After a brief discussion of Baker-Sampson polynomials and the vexing issue of saturation, a pursuit is made of actual numbers to be expected in real cases. While the numbers crunched are gathered ex nihilo, they demonstrate the feasibility of Newton's method in the solution of this overdetermined, nonlinear, least square, multiparametric, photometric problem.

Photometric Study of Intermediate Age Open Clusters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Contreras, Maria Eugenia; Michel, R.; Schuster, W.; Chavarria-Kleinhenn, C.; Olguin, L.

2011-05-01

We present the study of a sample of intermediate age open clusters (age 10-30 Myr) using optical (UBVRI) and infrared (JHK) photometric data. Optical photometry was obtained as part of the San Pedro Martir Open Clusters Project (SPM-OCP, Schuster et al. 2007; Michel et al. 2011, in preparation) while near-infrared photometry was retrieved from the 2MASS public data archive (ref). Most of the clusters included in SPM-OCP were selected from the Dias et al. (2002). catalog. On one hand, UVRI photometry was used to derive fundamental parameters of each cluster in the sample, such as age, distance and reddening. On the other hand, infrared photometry has allowed us to carry out a preliminary search of candidate stars to posses a circumstellar disk detected via its near-infrared excess. Observational data show that the number of infrared excess detection decreases with stellar age and actually this emission seems to completely disappear in stars with an age of 30 Myr (Strom et al. 1993; Muzerolle et al. 2000). One possible explanation for the lack of infrared emission has been proposed to be grain coagulation where small dust particles grow into larger and larger bodies until forming planetesimals and even planets. In this work we are aimed to analyze a sample of open clusters lying in this crucial age range.

RVxK2: Simultaneous PRV Program with Kepler/K2 Campaign 16

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xuesong Wang, Sharon; RVxK2 team

2018-01-01

Introducing the RVxK2 program: simultaneous precise radial velocity (PRV) observations with Kepler/K2 Campaign 16, from Dec 7 2017 through Feb 26 2018 (website: rvxk2.com). K2 will provide short cadence photometric data on five carefully selected stars, including the brightest M dwarf in C16 field, a solar analog, and three bright G/K subgiants. K2 will also provide long cadence data on the next three brightest K or M dwarfs in the C16 field. Our campaign includes several precise RV instruments around the globe, including Keck/HIRES, APF, IRTF/iSHELL, SONG, MINERVA, PARAS, representing the first organized, extensive, simultaneous RV campaign with space photometry. Our primary science goal is to characterize and understand stellar jitter and stellar activity. This RV+K2 campaign will provide the community with an unprecedented dataset of RV spectra and precise photometry to study stellar jitter on a broad range of time scales, from minutes to 80 days. We will gather the first ever RV+photometry dataset aiming at characterizing stellar granulation, the most poorly understood term among all astrophysical sources of stellar jitter. This project will also enable the first asteroseismic studies with simultaneous precise RVs and photometry, while searching for planets in the brightest nearby G to M dwarfs in the field.

Detection of Terrestrial Planets Using Transit Photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koch, D.; Witteborn, F.; Jenkins, J.; Dunham, E.; Borucki, W.

2000-12-01

Transit photometry detection of planets offers many advantages: an ability to detect terrestrial-size planets, direct determination of the planet's size, applicability to all main-sequence stars, and a periodic signature (differential brightness change) being independent of stellar distance or planetary orbital semi-major axis. Ground and space based photometry have already been successful in detecting transits of the giant planet HD209458b (Charbonneau, et al. 2000, Castellano et al. 2000 and references therein). However, photometry 100 times better is required to detect terrestrial planets. We present results of measurements of an end-to-end photometric system incorporating all of the important confounding noise features of both the sky and a spacebased photometer including spacecraft jitter. In addition to demonstrating an instrumental noise of less than 10 ppm per transit (an Earth transit of a solar-like star is 80 ppm), the brightnesses of individual stars were dimmed to simulate Earth-size transit signals. These "transits" were reliably detected as part of the tests. Funding for this work was provided by NASA's Discovery and Origins programs and by NASA Ames. Charbonneau, D.; Brown, T.M.; Latham, D.W.; Mayor, M., ApJ, 529, L45, 2000. Castellano, T., Jenkins, J., Trilling, D. E., Doyle, L., and Koch, D., ApJ Let. 532, L51-L53 (2000)

Real time 3D photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fernandez-Balbuena, A. A.; Vazquez-Molini, D.; García-Botella, A.; Romo, J.; Serrano, Ana

2017-09-01

The photometry and radiometry measurement is a well-developed field. The necessity of measuring optical systems performance involves the use of several techniques like Gonio-photometry. The Gonio photometers are a precise measurement tool that is used in the lighting area like office, luminaire head car lighting, concentrator /collimator measurement and all the designed and fabricated optical systems that works with light. There is one disadvantage in this kind of measurements that obtain the intensity polar curves and the total flux of the optical system. In the industry, there are good Gonio photometers that are precise and reliable but they are very expensive and the measurement time is long. In industry the cost can be of minor importance but measuring time that is around 30 minutes is of major importance due to trained staff cost. We have designed a system to measure photometry in real time; it consists in a curved screen to get a huge measurement angle and a CCD. The system to be measured projects light onto the screen and the CCD records a video of the screen obtaining an image of the projected profile. A complex calibration permits to trace screen data (x,y,z) to intensity polar curve (I,αγ). This intensity is obtained in candels (cd) with an image + processing time below one second.

Sseven-color Photometry and Classification of Stars in the Vicinity of the Emission Nebula Sh2-205

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Čepas, V.; Zdanavičius, J.; Zdanavičius, K.; Straižys, V.; Laugalys, V.

We present the results of CCD photometry in the seven-color Vilnius system for 922 stars down to V = 17 mag in a 1.5 square degree field at the northern edge of the H II region Sh2-205, at the Perseus and Camelopardalis border. Using the intrinsic color indices and photometric reddening-free Q-parameters, two-dimensional spectral types for most stars are determined.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Wide-field photometry of the GC Palomar 5 (Ibata+, 2016)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ibata, R. A.; Lewis, G. F.; Martin, N. F.

2016-05-01

The primary source of photometry for this project was obtained with the MegaCam instrument at the 3.6m Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope (CFHT) during the 2006-2008 spring observing seasons. We also secured photometric observations of the cluster and its stream using the Mosaic II imager on the Mayall 4m Telescope at Kitt Peak National Observatory (KPNO) on 2010 June 4-8. (2 data files).

A multichannel fiber optic photometer present performance and future developments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barwig, H.; Schoembs, R.; Huber, G.

1988-01-01

A three channel photometer for simultaneous multicolor observations was designed with the aim of making possible highly efficient photometry of fast variable objects like cataclysmic variables. Experiences with this instrument over a period of three years are presented. Aspects of the special techniques applied are discussed with respect to high precision photometry. In particular, the use of fiber optics is critically analyzed. Finally, the development of a new photometer concept is discussed.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: VEGAS-SSS photometry of NGC3115 (Cantiello+, 2015)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cantiello, M.; Capaccioli, M.; Napolitano, N.; Grado, A.; Limatola, L.; Paolillo, M.; Iodice, E.; Romanowsky, A. J.; Forbes, D. A.; Raimondo, G.; Spavone, M.; La Barbera, F.; Puzia, T. H.; Schipani, P.

2015-03-01

We present g and i band photometry for ~47000 extended and point-like objects in the ~0.8 square degree area centred on NGC3115. For ~30000 object in the catalogue, structural parameters are also available. For each object equatorial coordinates, galactocentric distance from the photometric center of NGC3115, magnitudes in g and i bands (SDSS calibrated), colour, local extinction and sctructural parameters. (1 data file).

VizieR Online Data Catalog: SNe II light curves & spectra from the CfA (Hicken+, 2017)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hicken, M.; Friedman, A. S.; Blondin, S.; Challis, P.; Berlind, P.; Calkins, M.; Esquerdo, G.; Matheson, T.; Modjaz, M.; Rest, A.; Kirshner, R. P.

2018-01-01

Since all of the optical photometry reported here was produced as part of the CfA3 and CfA4 processing campaigns, see Hicken+ (2009, J/ApJ/700/331) and Hicken+ (2012, J/ApJS/200/12) for greater details on the instruments, observations, photometry pipeline, calibration, and host-galaxy subtraction used to create the CfA SN II light curves. (8 data files).

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Segue 3 VI photometry (Ortolani+, 2013)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ortolani, S.; Bica, E.; Barbuy, B.

2015-01-01

Johnson-Cousins V and I images were obtained at the Telescopio Nazionale Galileo (TNG), equipped with the spectrograph/focal reducer DOLORES, with a 2000x2000-pixels of 8.5x8.5-arcmin2 CCD giving 0.25arcsec/pix, during the night of 2011 June 26-27. Additional B, V and I photometry was obtained, with the same equipment, in the night of 2012 June 17-18. (2 data files).

Lightcurve Photometry Opportunities: 2018 April-June

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Warner, Brian D.; Harris, Alan W.; Durech, Josef; Benner, Lance A. M.

2018-04-01

We present lists of asteroid photometry opportunities for objects reaching a favorable apparition and having either none or poorly-defined lightcurve parameters. Additional data on these objects will help with shape and spin axis modeling via lightcurve inversion. We also include lists of objects that will be the target of radar observations. Lightcurves for these objects can help constrain pole solutions and/or remove rotation period ambiguities that might not come from using radar data alone.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: MASCARA-2 b (HD185603) light curves and spectra (Talens+, 2018)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Talens, G. J. J.; Justesen, A. B.; Albrecht, S.; McCormac, J.; van Eylen, V.; Otten, G. P. P. L.; Murgas, F.; Palle, E.; Pollacco, D.; Stuik, R.; Spronck, J. F. P.; Lesage, A.-L.; Grundahl, F.; Fredslund Andersen, M.; Antoci, V.; Snellen, I. A. G.

2018-02-01

Photometric time-series and radial velocities obtained for MASCARA-2 using the MASCARA, NITES, IAC80 and SONG telescopes. The MASCARA photometry covers the period from February 2015 to December 2016 and utilizes no filter. The NITES and IAC80 photometry was obtained during the night of 4 June 2017 utilizing the R filter. The SONG RVs cover the period from May-June 2017. (26 data files).

Karl Schwarzschild's investigations of `out-of-focus photometry' between 1897 and 1899 at Kuffner Observatory in Vienna

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Habison, Peter

From 1897 to 1899 Karl Schwarzschild worked at the Kuffner Observatory in Vienna. During these years he developed new measuring techniques in the field of photographic photometry, where he studied particularly the quantitative determination of the departure from the reciprocity law during photographic exposure. This paper concentrates on Schwarzschild's early work in this field and gives an overview of his important Viennese years.

Lightcurve Photometry Opportunities: 2018 July-September

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Warner, Brian D.; Harris, Alan W.; Durech, Josef; Benner, Lance A. M.

2018-07-01

We present lists of asteroid photometry opportunities for objects reaching a favorable apparition and having either none or poorly-defined lightcurve parameters. Additional data on these objects will help with shape and spin axis modeling via lightcurve inversion. We also include lists of objects that will be the target of radar observations. Lightcurves for these objects can help constrain pole solutions and/or remove rotation period ambiguities that might not come from using radar data alone.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: VRIJHK photometry of 3C 279 (Sandrinelli+, 2016)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sandrinelli, A.; Covino, S.; Dotti, M.; Treves, A.

2016-07-01

The starting point of the present investigation is the VRIJHK photometric observations obtained with the robotic Rapid Eye Mounting telescope (REM) at La Silla, which are described in detail in Sandrinelli et al. 2014 (cat. J/A+A/562/A79). We add to the data available in the above mentioned paper the REM photometry of 3C 279 (see Table2), which is unpublished thus far. (2 data files).

VizieR Online Data Catalog: 25 parsec local white dwarf population (Holberg+, 2016)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Holberg, J. B.; Oswalt, T. D.; Sion, E. M.; McCook, G. P.

2018-02-01

Table 1 presents the basic properties of the 232 WDs in the LS25 identified by WD number and alternate name. Existing multiband photometry for each star in our LS25 sample is listed in Table 2. Table 3 provides the adapted distances calculated from the trigonometric parallaxes (see Table 1) or photometric distances calculated from the adapted Teff and logg photometry in Table 2. (3 data files).

Ground-base multicolour photometry of NGC 6811

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ocando, S.; Martín-Ruiz, S.; Rodríguez, E.

2017-03-01

NGC 6811 is one of the four open clusters in the field of view of the Kepler space mission. Among its members there are several known pulsating A-F stars of the δ Scuti, γ Doradus, and hybrid type, which makes this cluster a very interesting object to study its pulsational content. During the summers of 2013 and 2014 we performed an extensive observational campaign using the 1.5 m telescope at the Sierra Nevada Observatory and multicolour photometry. New pulsating variables candidates were detected in this work. We fulfilled a frequency analysis for the known variables, with very good agreement with previous results. By using Str ̈omgren photometry we were able to obtain the main physical parameters of the stars such as temperature, surface gravity, metallicity and luminosity. We have also determined the corresponding frequency phase-shifts and amplitude ratios between different filters as a first step to identify the pulsational modes of the variables.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: From optical to infrared photometry of SN 2013dy (Pan+, 2015)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pan, Y.-C.; Foley, R. J.; Kromer, M.; Fox, O. D.; Zheng, W.; Challis, P.; Clubb, K. I.; Filippenko, A. V.; Folatelli, G.; Graham, M. L.; Hillebrandt, W.; Kirshner, R. P.; Lee, W. H.; Pakmor, R.; Patat, F.; Phillips, M. M.; Pignata, G.; Ropke, F.; Seitenzahl, I.; Silverman, J. M.; Simon, J. D.; Sternberg, A.; Stritzinger, M. D.; Taubenberger, S.; Vinko, J.; Wheeler, J. C.

2017-11-01

We obtained broad-band BVRI photometry of SN 2013dy with the 0.76m Katzman Automatic Imaging Telescope (KAIT; Filippenko et al. 2001ASPC..246..121F). The multiband images were observed with the KAIT4 filter set from -16d to +337d relative to B-band maximum (MJD=56501.105). We also obtained riZYJH photometry of SN 2013dy with the multichannel Reionization And Transients InfraRed camera (RATIR; Butler et al. 2012SPIE.8446E..10B) mounted on the 1.5m Johnson telescope at the Mexican Observatorio Astronomico Nacional on Sierra San Pedro Martir in Baja California, Mexico (Watson et al. 2012SPIE.8444E..5LW). Typical observations include a series of 80s exposures in the ri bands and 60s exposures in the ZYJH bands, with dithering between exposures. (2 data files).

UBVI CCD Photometry of the Open Clusters NGC 4609 and Hogg 15

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kook, Seung-Hwa; Sung, Hwankyung; Bessell, M. S.

2010-10-01

{UBVI CCD photometry is obtained for the open clusters NGC 4609 and Hogg 15 in Crux. For NGC 4609, CCD data are presented for the first time. From new photometry we derive the reddening, distance modulus and age of each cluster - NGC 4609 : E(B-V) = 0.37 ± 0.03, V_0 - M_V = 10.60 ± 0.08, log τ= 7.7 ± 0.1; Hogg 15 : E(B-V) = 1.13 ± 0.11, V_0 - M_V = 12.50 ± 0.15, log τ ≲ 6.6. The young age of Hogg 15 strongly implies that WR 47 is a member of the cluster. We also determine the mass function of these clusters and obtain a slope Γ = -1.2 (± 0.3) for NGC 4609 which is normal and a somewhat shallow slope (Γ = -0.95 ± 0.5) for Hogg 15.

Mapping the Milky Way's Halo out to 500 kpc: New M Giants selected from UKIDSS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bochanski, John J.; Willman, B.; West, A. A.

2013-01-01

We present an analysis of photometrically identified halo M giants in the UKIDSS Large Area Survey (LAS). The UKIDSS LAS Data Release 8 covers 2700 square degrees with yJHK photometry, down to faint limits about 3 magnitudes deeper than 2MASS. UKIDSS LAS DR8 is thus >4 times larger in effective volume than the 2MASS halo map. Combined with ugriz photometry from SDSS, our M giant sample extends to 500 kpc, the first to extend beyond 100 kpc and the first to utilize SDSS photometry to discriminate against quasars. We use this sample to search for new tidal debris structures in the distant halo and to constrain the recent merger history of the Milky Way. Spectroscopic follow-up will facilitate the study of Milky Way halo kinematics. We acknowledge the financial support of NSF AST-1151462.

An Aperture Photometry Pipeline for K2 Data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Buzasi, Derek L.; Carboneau, Lindsey; Lezcano, Andy; Vydra, Ekaterina

2016-01-01

As part of an ongoing research program with undergraduate students at Florida Gulf Coast University, we have constructed an aperture photometry pipeline for K2 data. The pipeline performs dynamic automated aperture mask definition for all targets in the K2 fields, followed by aperture photometry and detrending. Our pipeline is currently used to support a number of projects, including studies of stellar rotation and activity, red giant asteroseismology, gyrochronology, and exoplanet searches. In addition, output is used to support an undergraduate class on exoplanets aimed at a student audience of both majors and non-majors. The pipeline is designed for both batch and single-target use, and is easily extensible to data from other missions, and pipeline output is available to the community. This paper will describe our pipeline and its capabilities and illustrate the quality of the results, drawing on all of the applications for which it is currently used.

Evaluation of Intraocular Inflammation with Laser Flare Photometry in Behçet Uveitis.

PubMed

Yalcindag, Fatime Nilufer; Bingol Kiziltunc, Pinar; Savku, Esra

2017-02-01

To evaluate the association between intraocular inflammation and laser flare photometry measurements in Behçet disease. In total, 45 patients were included in the study. The retrospective chart reviews of patients were performed. The flare levels were compared with the grade of anterior chamber cells, the presence of vitreous cells, the complications of uveitis, and fluorescein angiography scores. The attack group had higher flare intensity; the flare levels were higher in both groups compared with the values of healthy controls. The flare levels were related to the grade of the anterior chamber cells, the presence of vitreous cells and the fluorescein angiography scores. Patients with optic atrophy and/or maculopathy also had higher values. Higher flare values were correlated with poor vision. Laser flare photometry may reduce the necessity of fluorescein angiography in monitoring subclinical inflammation and may be an indicator of posterior segment activity when fluorescein angiography is not applicable.

Joint Soviet-French studies of the solar corona. II - Photometry of the solar corona on June 30, 1973

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vsekhsvyatsky, S. K.; Dzyubenko, N. I.; Ivanchuk, V. I.; Popov, O. S.; Rubo, G. A.; Koutchmy, S.; Koutchmy, O.; Shtelmacher, G.

1981-04-01

Results are presented of a study of negatives obtained on June 30, 1973 during the total solar eclipse in Africa; the study was part of a joint Soviet-French experiment on white corona dynamics, carried out by expeditions of Kiev University (Atar, Mauritania) and the Paris Astrophysical Institute (Moussoro, Chad). The distribution of total corona brightness up to 4.5 solar radii and its K and F corona components for east and north directions were found on the basis of novel methods of photometry and colorimetry using star images up to 8.5m as the photometry standards. Neither the color effect nor flattening is found in the inner part (less than 2.5 solar radii) of the F corona. Integral corona brightness in the standard zone of 1.03-6.00 solar radii was found to be 0.64 x 10 to the -6th solar-E.

Views from EPOXI. Colors in Our Solar System as an Analog for Extrasolar Planets

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Crow, Carolyn A.; McFadden, L. A.; Robinson, T.; Livengood, T. A.; Hewagama, T.; Barry, R. K.; Deming, L. D.; Meadows, V.; Lisse, C. M.

2010-01-01

With extrasolar planet detection becoming more common place, the frontiers of extrasolar planet science have moved beyond detection to the observations required to determine planetary properties. Once the existing observational challenges have been overcome, the first visible-light studies of extrasolar Earth-sized planets will likely employ filter photometry or low-resolution. spectroscopy to observe disk-integrated radiation from the unresolved planet. While spectroscopy of these targets is highly desirable, and provides the most robust form of characterization. S/N considerations presently limit spectroscopic measurements of extrasolar worlds. Broadband filter photometry will thus serve as a first line of characterization. In this paper we use Extrasolar Observation and Characterization (EPOCh) filter photometry of the Earth. Moon and Mars model spectra. and previous photometric and spectroscopic observations of a range the solar system planets. Titan, and Moon to explore the limitations of using color as a baseline for understanding extrasolar planets

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Bright white dwarfs IRAC photometry (Barber+, 2016)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barber, S. D.; Belardi, C.; Kilic, M.; Gianninas, A.

2017-07-01

Mid-infrared photometry, like the 3.4 and 4.6um photometry available from WISE, is necessary to detect emission from a debris disc orbiting a WD. WISE, however, has poor spatial resolution (6 arcsec beam size) and is known to have a 75 per cent false positive rate for detecting dusty discs around WDs fainter than 14.5(15) mag in W1(W2) (Barber et al. (2014ApJ...786...77B). To mitigate this high rate of spurious detections, we compile higher spatial resolution archival data from the InfraRed Array Camera (IRAC) on the Spitzer Space Telescope. We query the Spitzer Heritage Archive for any observations within 10 arcsec of the 1265 WDs from Gianninas et al. (2011, Cat. J/ApJ/743/138) and find 907 Astronomical Observing Requests (AORs) for 381 WDs. (1 data file).

On the Photometric Calibration of FORS2 and the Sloan Digital Sky Survey

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bramich, D.; Moehler, S.; Coccato, L.; Freudling, W.; Garcia-Dabó, C. E.; Müller, P.; Saviane, I.

2012-09-01

An accurate absolute calibration of photometric data to place them on a standard magnitude scale is very important for many science goals. Absolute calibration requires the observation of photometric standard stars and analysis of the observations with an appropriate photometric model including all relevant effects. In the FORS Absolute Photometry (FAP) project, we have developed a standard star observing strategy and modelling procedure that enables calibration of science target photometry to better than 3% accuracy on photometrically stable nights given sufficient signal-to-noise. In the application of this photometric modelling to large photometric databases, we have investigated the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) and found systematic trends in the published photometric data. The amplitudes of these trends are similar to the reported typical precision (˜1% and ˜2%) of the SDSS photometry in the griz- and u-bands, respectively.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: NGC5617 and Trumpler 22 stars BV mag and RV (De Silva+, 2015)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de Silva, G. M.; Carraro, G.; D'Orazi, V.; Efremova, V.; MacPherson, H.; Martell, S.; Rizzo, L.

2016-08-01

The photometry used in this paper comes from two sources. In the case of NGC 5617, modern CCD photometry in the UBVI passbands is available from Carraro (2011, Cat. J/A+A/536/A101). For Trumpler 22, only old photographic data exist (Haug, 1978A&AS...34..417H), and for this reason we exploit here a new data set. Photometry in UBVI was acquired at Las Campanas Observatory on the nights from 2011 June 03 and are published here for the first time. We stress that this setup (telescope/instrument) is the same that Carraro (2011, Cat. J/A+A/536/A101) used for NGC 5617. Spectra were collected on the 3.9 m Anglo-Australian Telescope (AAT) using the UCLES spectrograph (2012 March 5-6) and using the HERMES multi-object spectrograph (2014 August 22) under service observation time. (1 data file).

Discovery and Characterization of Small Planets from the K2 Mission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Howard, Andrew

The K2 mission offers a unique opportunity to find substantial numbers of new transiting planets with host stars much brighter than those found by Kepler -- ideal targets for measurements of planetary atmospheres (with HST and JWST) and planetary masses and densities (with Doppler spectroscopy). The K2 data present unique challenges compared to the Kepler mission. We propose to build on our team's demonstrated successes with the Kepler photometry and in finding exciting new planetary systems in K2 data. We will search for transiting planets in photometry of all stellar K2 targets in each of the first three K2 Campaigns (Fields C0, C1, and C2). We will adapt and enhance our TERRA transit search tool to detect transits in the K2 photometry, and we will assess candidate transiting planets with a suite of K2-specific vetting tools including pixel-level inspection for transit localization, centroid motion tests, and secondary eclipse searches. We will publicly release TERRA and our pixel-level diagnostics for use by other teams in future analyses of K2 and TESS photometry. We will also develop FreeBLEND, a free and open source tool to robustly quantify the probability of false positive detections for individual planet candidates given reduced photometry, constraints from the K2 pixel-level data, adaptive optics imaging, high-resolution stellar spectroscopy, and radial velocity measurements. This tool will be similar to BLENDER for Kepler, but (a) more computationally efficient and useable on the wide range of galactic latitudes that K2 samples and (b) available for use by the entire community. With these tools we will publicly release high-quality (low-noise) reduced photometry of the K2 target stars as well as catalogs of the transiting planets. Host stars in our planet catalogs will be characterized by medium and high-resolution spectroscopy (as appropriate) to yield accurate planet parameters. For a handful of planets in the sample, we will measure masses using Keck-HIRES to constrain the planets' bulk densities and compositions. This project is relevant to the ADA Program as it focuses on archived K2 mission data. It supports NASA's strategic goals to characterize the diverse population of small exoplanets, identified targets to maximize JWST's exoplanet science yield, and develops community tools for use with K2, TESS, and other future missions.

The Leo I color-magnitude diagram

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reid, Neill; Mould, Jeremy

1991-04-01

The R-and I-band photometry of the Leo I dwarf galaxy is presented. A relatively narrow giant branch is found, Implying an abundance range of no more than Fe/H/= - 0.7 to - 1.3. This is in contrast to the results is found by Fox and Pritchet (1987) from BV CCD photometry. The distance modulus is estimated as (m - M) = 21.85 + or - 0.15, based on the luminosity of the tip of the red giant branch.

Colour, albedo and nucleus size of Halley's comet

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cruikshank, D. P.; Tholen, D. J.; Hartmann, W. K.

1985-01-01

Photometry of Halley's comet in the B, J, V, and K broadband filters during a time when the coma was very weak and presumed to contribute negligibly to the broadband photometry is reported. The V-J and J-K colors suggest that the color of the nucleus of Halley's comet is similar to that of the D-type asteroids, which in turn suggests that the surface of the nucleus has an albedo less than 0.1.

Recent photometry of selected symbiotic stars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vrašťák, M.

2018-04-01

A new multicolour (BVRcIc) photometric observations of symbiotic stars UV Aur, YY Her, V443 Her, V1016 Cyg, PU Vul, V407 Cyg, V471 Per and suspected symbiotic stars ZZ CMi, NQ Gem, V934 Her, V335 Vul, V627 Cas is presented. The data were obtained from 2016 October to 2018 January by the metod of classical CCD photometry. The monitoring program is still running, so on this paper partial light curves are presented.

Photoelectric photometry era at the Astronomical Institute of the Slovak Academy of Sciences II. Software and reduction techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vaňko, M.; Komžík, R.; Kollár, V.; Sekeráš, M.

2014-10-01

We present a continuation of Paper9 I describing the photoelectric photometry at the Astronomical Institute of the Slovak Academy of Sciences at Tatranská Lomnica. In this article we show the observation principles and the basic ideas and philosophy of the photometer control software — the code UNIV, written by R. Komžík and V. Kollár, and used for the data resulting from observations.

On-line Flagging of Anomalies and Adaptive Sequential Hypothesis Testing for Fine-feature Characterization of Geosynchronous Satellites

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-10-18

statistical assessment of geosynchronous satellite status based on non- resolved photometry data,” AMOS Technical Conference, 2014 2. Wald, A...the seasonal changes. Its purpose is to enable an ongoing, automated assessment of satellite behavior through its life cycle using the photometry data...work on the decision to move the time slider [1], which is required in order to update the baseline signature (brightness) data for a satellite

Galex and Optical Observations of GW Librae during the Long Decline from Superoutburst

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-03-01

1995). Time - resolved spectroscopy (Szkody et al. 2000; Thorstensen et al. 2002) revealed a very short orbital period of 76.78 minutes, consistent with...entered. As of the current time , the white dwarf has not yet resumed its pre-outburst character. Yet, the photometry has re- vealed some interesting...that could be due to the various satellite orbits. 2.2. Optical Photometry Optical photometric data were obtained with multiple tele- scopes between 2007

MiNDSTEp differential photometry of the gravitationally lensed quasars WFI 2033-4723 and HE 0047-1756: microlensing and a new time delay

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Giannini, E.; Schmidt, R. W.; Wambsganss, J.; Alsubai, K.; Andersen, J. M.; Anguita, T.; Bozza, V.; Bramich, D. M.; Browne, P.; Calchi Novati, S.; Damerdji, Y.; Diehl, C.; Dodds, P.; Dominik, M.; Elyiv, A.; Fang, X.; Figuera Jaimes, R.; Finet, F.; Gerner, T.; Gu, S.; Hardis, S.; Harpsøe, K.; Hinse, T. C.; Hornstrup, A.; Hundertmark, M.; Jessen-Hansen, J.; Jørgensen, U. G.; Juncher, D.; Kains, N.; Kerins, E.; Korhonen, H.; Liebig, C.; Lund, M. N.; Lundkvist, M. S.; Maier, G.; Mancini, L.; Masi, G.; Mathiasen, M.; Penny, M.; Proft, S.; Rabus, M.; Rahvar, S.; Ricci, D.; Scarpetta, G.; Sahu, K.; Schäfer, S.; Schönebeck, F.; Skottfelt, J.; Snodgrass, C.; Southworth, J.; Surdej, J.; Tregloan-Reed, J.; Vilela, C.; Wertz, O.; Zimmer, F.

2017-01-01

Aims: We present V and R photometry of the gravitationally lensed quasars WFI 2033-4723 and HE 0047-1756. The data were taken by the MiNDSTEp collaboration with the 1.54 m Danish telescope at the ESO La Silla observatory from 2008 to 2012. Methods: Differential photometry has been carried out using the image subtraction method as implemented in the HOTPAnTS package, additionally using GALFIT for quasar photometry. Results: The quasar WFI 2033-4723 showed brightness variations of order 0.5 mag in V and R during the campaign. The two lensed components of quasar HE 0047-1756 varied by 0.2-0.3 mag within five years. We provide, for the first time, an estimate of the time delay of component B with respect to A of Δt = (7.6 ± 1.8) days for this object. We also find evidence for a secular evolution of the magnitude difference between components A and B in both filters, which we explain as due to a long-duration microlensing event. Finally we find that both quasars WFI 2033-4723 and HE 0047-1756 become bluer when brighter, which is consistent with previous studies. Based on data collected by MiNDSTEp with the Danish 1.54 m telescope at the ESO La Silla observatory.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Three O-type binaries photometry in LMC (Morrell+, 2014)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Morrell, N. I.; Massey, P.; Neugent, K. F.; Penny, L. R.; Gies, D. R.

2017-03-01

We will concentrate on the presentation and discussion of our photometric and spectroscopic observations of 3 binary systems containing the earliest type components among the observed sample of 17 binaries in the LMC, namely, LMC 169782, LMC 171520, and [P93] 921. All three systems belong to the 30 Dor region, which harbors some of the most massive stars known to date (Crowther et al. 2010MNRAS.408..731C; Schnurr et al. 2009MNRAS.395..823S).Time-resolved photometry was carried out for all three systems in order to provide the light curves needed to establish periods and calculate orbital inclinations. As described in Paper I (Massey et al. 2012ApJ...748...96M), this was carried out using simple aperture photometry as opposed to point-spread-function fitting; tests showed that we obtained equally accurate results with aperture photometry, which was expected given that our targets are not overly crowded. In order to compute the observed absolute magnitudes for our targets, we have assumed a distance modulus of 18.50 (50 kpc) for the LMC following van den Bergh (2000, The Galaxies of the Local Group (Cambridge: Cambridge Univ. Press)), and we have used the intrinsic colors given by FitzGerald (1970A&A.....4..234F) and a normal reddening law with Rv = 3.1. (3 data files).

M2K Planet Search: Spectroscopic Screening and Transit Photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mann, Andrew; Gaidos, E.; Fischer, D.; Lepine, S.

2010-10-01

The M2K project is a search for planets orbiting nearby early M and late K dwarf drawn from the SUPERBLINK catalog. M and K dwarfs are highly attractive targets for finding low-mass and habitable planets because (1) close-in planets are more likely to orbit within their habitable zone, (2) planets orbiting them induce a larger Doppler signal and have deeper transits than similar planets around F, G, and early K type stars, (3) planet formation models predict they hold an abundance of super-Earth sized planets, and (4) they represent the vast majority of the stars close enough for direct imaging techniques. In spite of this, only 10% of late K and early M dwarfs are being monitored by current Doppler surveys. As part of the M2K project we have obtained low-resolution spectra for more than 2000 of our sample of 10,000 M and K dwarfs. We vet our sample by screening these stars for high metallicity and low chromospheric activity. We search for transits on targets showing high RMS Doppler signal and photometry candidates provided by SuperWASP project. By using "snapshot” photometry have been able to achieve sub-millimag photometry on numerous transit targets in the same night. With further follow-up observations we will be able to detect planets smaller than 10 Earth masses.

CCD Strömvil Photometry of M 37

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boyle, R. P.; Janusz, R.; Kazlauskas, A.; Philip, A. G. Davis

2001-12-01

We have been working on a program of setting up standards in the Strömvil photometric system and have been doing CCD photometry of globular and open clusters. A previous paper (Boyle et al. BAAS, AAS Meeting #193, #68.08) described the results of observations made in the open cluster M 67, which we are setting up as one of the prime standard fields for Strömvil photometry. Now we discuss our observations of M 37, made on the Vatican Advanced Technology Telescope on Mt. Graham, Arizona. One of us (R.J.) has automated the data processing by a novel method. The Strömvil group is multinational. By use of this innovative automated, yet interactive processing method, one systematically applies the same processing steps to run in IRAF by capturing them as presented in html files and submitting them to the IRAF command language. Use of the mouse avoids errors and accelerates the processing from raw data frames to calibrated photometry. From several G2 V stars in M 67 we have calculated their mean color indices and compare them to stars in M 37 to identify candidate G2 V stars there. Identifying such stars relates to the search for terrestrial exoplanets. Ultimately we will use the calibrated Strömvil indices to make photometric determinations of log g and Teff.

Comparative analysis for strength serum sodium and potassium in three different methods: Flame photometry, ion-selective electrode (ISE) and colorimetric enzymatic.

PubMed

Garcia, Rafaela Alvim; Vanelli, Chislene Pereira; Pereira Junior, Olavo Dos Santos; Corrêa, José Otávio do Amaral

2018-06-19

Hydroelectrolytic disorders are common in clinical situations and may be harmful to the patient, especially those involving plasma sodium and potassium dosages. Among the possible methods for the dosages are flame photometry, ion-selective electrode (ISE) and colorimetric enzymatic method. We analyzed 175 samples in the three different methods cited from patients attending the laboratory of the University Hospital of the Federal University of Juiz de Fora. The values obtained were statistically treated using SPSS 19.0 software. The present study aims to evaluate the impact of the use of these different methods in the determination of plasma sodium and potassium. The averages obtained for sodium and potassium measurements by flame photometry were similar (P > .05) to the means obtained for the two electrolytes by ISE. The averages obtained by the colorimetric enzymatic method presented statistical difference in relation to ISE, both for sodium and potassium. In the correlation analysis, both flame photometry and colorimetric enzymatic showed a strong correlation with the ISE method for both dosages. At the first time in the same work sodium and potassium were analyzed by three different methods and the results allowed us to conclude that the methods showed a positive and strong correlation, and can be applied in the clinical routine. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Near- and Mid-Infrared Photometry of the Pleiades and a New List of Substellar Candidate Members

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stauffer, John R.; Hartmann, Lee W.; Fazio, Giovanni G.; Allen, Lori E.; Patten, Brian M.; Lowrance, Patrick J.; Hurt, Robert L.; Rebull, Luisa M.; Cutri, Roc M.; Ramirez, Solange V.; Young, Erick T.; Rieke, George H.; Gorlova, Nadya I.; Muzerolle, James C.; Slesnick, Cathy L.; Skrutskie, Michael F.

2007-10-01

We make use of new near- and mid-IR photometry of the Pleiades cluster in order to help identify proposed cluster members. We also use the new photometry with previously published photometry to define the single-star main-sequence locus at the age of the Pleiades in a variety of color-magnitude planes. The new near- and mid-IR photometry extend effectively 2 mag deeper than the 2MASS All-Sky Point Source catalog, and hence allow us to select a new set of candidate very low-mass and substellar mass members of the Pleiades in the central square degree of the cluster. We identify 42 new candidate members fainter than Ks=14 (corresponding to 0.1 Msolar). These candidate members should eventually allow a better estimate of the cluster mass function to be made down to of order 0.04 Msolar. We also use new IRAC data, in particular the images obtained at 8 μm, in order to comment briefly on interstellar dust in and near the Pleiades. We confirm, as expected, that-with one exception-a sample of low-mass stars recently identified as having 24 μm excesses due to debris disks do not have significant excesses at IRAC wavelengths. However, evidence is also presented that several of the Pleiades high-mass stars are found to be impacting with local condensations of the molecular cloud that is passing through the Pleiades at the current epoch. This work is based (in part) on observations made with the Spitzer Space Telescope, which is operated by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, under NASA contract 1407. This publication makes use of data products from the Two Micron All Sky Survey, which is a joint project of the University of Massachusetts and the Infrared Processing and Analysis Center/California Institute of Technology, funded by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and the National Science Foundation.

A PUBLIC, K-SELECTED, OPTICAL-TO-NEAR-INFRARED CATALOG OF THE EXTENDED CHANDRA DEEP FIELD SOUTH (ECDFS) FROM THE MULTIWAVELENGTH SURVEY BY YALE-CHILE (MUSYC)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Taylor, Edward N.; Franx, Marijn; Quadri, Ryan F.

2009-08-01

We present a new, K-selected, optical-to-near infrared photometric catalog of the Extended Chandra Deep Field South (ECDFS), making it publicly available to the astronomical community.{sup 22}Imaging and spectroscopy data and catalogs are freely available through the MUSYC Public Data Release webpage: http://www.astro.yale.edu/MUSYC/. The data set is founded on publicly available imaging, supplemented by original z'JK imaging data collected as part of the MUltiwavelength Survey by Yale-Chile (MUSYC). The final photometric catalog consists of photometry derived from UU {sub 38} BVRIz'JK imaging covering the full 1/2 x 1/2 square circ of the ECDFS, plus H-band photometry for approximately 80% of themore » field. The 5{sigma} flux limit for point sources is K{sup (AB)}{sub tot}= 22.0. This is also the nominal completeness and reliability limit of the catalog: the empirical completeness for 21.75 < K < 22.00 is {approx}>85%. We have verified the quality of the catalog through both internal consistency checks, and comparisons to other existing and publicly available catalogs. As well as the photometric catalog, we also present catalogs of photometric redshifts and rest-frame photometry derived from the 10-band photometry. We have collected robust spectroscopic redshift determinations from published sources for 1966 galaxies in the catalog. Based on these sources, we have achieved a (1{sigma}) photometric redshift accuracy of {delta}z/(1 + z) = 0.036, with an outlier fraction of 7.8%. Most of these outliers are X-ray sources. Finally, we describe and release a utility for interpolating rest-frame photometry from observed spectral energy distributions, dubbed InterRest.{sup 23}InterRest is available via http://www.strw.leidenuniv.nl/{approx}ent/InterRest. Documentation and a complete walkthrough can be found at the same address.« less

High frame rate imaging based photometry. Photometric reduction of data from electron-multiplying charge coupled devices (EMCCDs)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harpsøe, K. B. W.; Jørgensen, U. G.; Andersen, M. I.; Grundahl, F.

2012-06-01

Context. The EMCCD is a type of CCD that delivers fast readout times and negligible readout noise, making it an ideal detector for high frame rate applications which improve resolution, like lucky imaging or shift-and-add. This improvement in resolution can potentially improve the photometry of faint stars in extremely crowded fields significantly by alleviating crowding. Alleviating crowding is a prerequisite for observing gravitational microlensing in main sequence stars towards the galactic bulge. However, the photometric stability of this device has not been assessed. The EMCCD has sources of noise not found in conventional CCDs, and new methods for handling these must be developed. Aims: We aim to investigate how the normal photometric reduction steps from conventional CCDs should be adjusted to be applicable to EMCCD data. One complication is that a bias frame cannot be obtained conventionally, as the output from an EMCCD is not normally distributed. Also, the readout process generates spurious charges in any CCD, but in EMCCD data, these charges are visible as opposed to the conventional CCD. Furthermore we aim to eliminate the photon waste associated with lucky imaging by combining this method with shift-and-add. Methods: A simple probabilistic model for the dark output of an EMCCD is developed. Fitting this model with the expectation-maximization algorithm allows us to estimate the bias, readout noise, amplification, and spurious charge rate per pixel and thus correct for these phenomena. To investigate the stability of the photometry, corrected frames of a crowded field are reduced with a point spread function (PSF) fitting photometry package, where a lucky image is used as a reference. Results: We find that it is possible to develop an algorithm that elegantly reduces EMCCD data and produces stable photometry at the 1% level in an extremely crowded field. Based on observation with the Danish 1.54 m telescope at ESO La Silla Observatory.

Colors and Compositional Characteristics of Kuiper Belt Objects and Centaurs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lederer, S. M.; Vilas, F.; Jarvis, K. S.; French, L.

2001-11-01

We present a study designed by Painter et al. (DPS 2000) to search for evidence of aqueous alteration in the surface material of solar system objects. Using VRI broadband photometry, we will search for the presence of the 0.7 um absorption feature (indicative of Fe-bearing hydrated silicates) in KBOs and Centaurs. Vilas (Icarus 111, 1994) found a strong correlation between the presence of the 0.7-um feature in low-albedo asteroids with solar-like colors and the 3-um water of hydration feature, indicative of phyllosilicates. Recent work by Howell et al. (LPSC, 2001) confirms that the presence of the 0.7 um feature in low-albedo asteroids definitely indicates the presence of the 3.0-um water of hydration absorption feature, suggesting the action of aqueous alteration in asteroids. In addition, Feierberg et al. (Icarus 63, 1985) showed that when the U - B color difference is > 0.12 in ECAS photometry, the 3.0-um absorption feature is often present in low albedo asteroids. Therefore, if the U-B color difference is > 0.12 and the 0.7-um feature is present in UBVRI reflectance photometry, water of hydration is implied in KBOs and Centaurs. We pursue these studies based on the mixed flat or steeply reddened photometry of these objects: Water ice has been identified in near-IR dark, flat spectra of some Centaurs, providing a source for the action of aqueous alteration. The complex collisional history proposed for these objects suggests a potential source of heating that would melt water ice, providing a mechanism for aqueous alteration to occur. Finally, we will use BVR photometry to determine the B-V and V-R colors, as has been done by Tegler and Romanishin (Nature, 407). We will compare our results with colors of KBOs and Centaurs published in the literature. This research was supported by the National Research Council and the NASA Planetary Astronomy Program.

Effect of topical ketorolac 0.4%, nepafenac 0.1%, and bromfenac 0.09% on postoperative inflammation using laser flare photometry in patients having phacoemulsification.

PubMed

Sahu, Sabin; Ram, Jagat; Bansal, Reema; Pandav, Surinder S; Gupta, Amod

2015-10-01

To study the effect of topical ketorolac 0.4% (Acular LS), bromfenac 0.09% (Megabrom), and nepafenac 0.1% (Nevanac) on postoperative inflammation using laser flare photometry in patients having phacoemulsification with posterior chamber intraocular lens (PC IOL) implantation. Tertiary care center, Chandigarh, India. Prospective randomized case series. Patients with age-related cataract having phacoemulsification with PC IOL implantation were randomized into 4 groups receiving topical ketorolac 0.4% (Group A), bromfenac 0.09% (Group B), nepafenac 0.1% (Group C), or no nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (Group D, control). The topical NSAIDs were started 1 day prior to the surgery and continued for 6 weeks postoperatively. All patients received a standard regimen of moxifloxacin 0.5% (Vigamox) and prednisolone acetate 1.0% (Pred Forte) eyedrops in tapering doses postoperatively. Visual acuity, intraocular pressure (IOP), laser flare photometry, and fundus examination were done preoperatively and postoperatively at 1 day and 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks. The study comprised 120 patients (120 eyes) (Group A = 33 patients, Group B = 30 patients, Group C = 31 patients, and Group D = 26 patients). The laser flare photometry values at the end of 4 weeks and 8 weeks were minimal in the nepafenac group compared with the other NSAID groups and the no-NSAID group (P = .032 at 4 weeks and P = .252 at 8 weeks). The topical NSAIDs ketorolac 0.4%, bromfenac 0.09%, and nepafenac 0.1% were effective for the reduction of postoperative inflammation following phacoemulsification. Compared with ketorolac tromethamine, bromfenac, and the control, nepafenac was significantly effective 1 month postoperatively in reducing anterior chamber flare, as evidenced by decreased laser flare photometry. No author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned. Copyright © 2015 ASCRS and ESCRS. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Photometry-based estimation of the total number of stars in the Universe.

PubMed

Manojlović, Lazo M

2015-07-20

A novel photometry-based estimation of the total number of stars in the Universe is presented. The estimation method is based on the energy conservation law and actual measurements of the extragalactic background light levels. By assuming that every radiated photon is kept within the Universe volume, i.e., by approximating the Universe as an integrating cavity without losses, the total number of stars in the Universe of about 6×10²² has been obtained.

Photometry and spectroscopy of a newly discovered polar - Nova Cygni 1975 (V1500 CYG)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kaluzny, Janusz; Chlebowski, Tomasz

1988-01-01

The paper reports photometric and spectroscopic observations which led to the conclusion that Nova Cygni 1975 (V1500 Cyg) is a polar (of AM Her-type).The CCD photometry confirms the constancy of the photometric period which is again interpreted as an orbital cycle. The time-resolved MMT spectra make it possible to reconstruct, under several assumptions, the basic system parameters: M1=0.9M solar mass and M2=0.31M solar mass.

Fine detrending of raw Kepler and MOST photometric data of KIC 6950556 and HD 37633

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mikulášek, Zdeněk; Paunzen, Ernst; Zejda, Miloslav; Semenko, Evgenij; Bernhard, Klaus; Hümmerich, Stefan; Zhang, Jia; Hubrig, Swetlana; Kuschnig, Rainer; Janík, Jan; Jagelka, Miroslav

2016-07-01

We present a simple phenomenological method for detrending of raw Kepler and MOST photometry, which is illustrated by means of photometric data processing of two periodically variable chemically peculiar stars, KIC 6950556 and HD 37633. In principle, this method may be applied to any type of periodically variable objects and satellite or ground based photometries. As a by product, we have identified KIC 6950556 as a magnetic chemically peculiar star with an ACV type variability.

The Near-Earth Encounter of 2005 YU55: Thermal Infrared Observations from Gemini North

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lim, Lucy F.; Emery, Joshua P.; Moskovitz, Nicholas A.; Granvik, Mikael

2012-01-01

As part of a multi-observatory campaign to observe 2005 YU55 during its November 2011 encounter with the Earth, thermal infrared photometry and spectroscopy (7.9- 14 and 18-22 micron) were conducted using the Michelle instrument at Gemini North. Reduction of the 8.8 flm photometry and the spectroscopy from UT Nov-IO as well as of all the Gemini data from UT Nov-9 is in progress. Results will be discussed.

Characterizing Giant Exoplanets through Multiwavelength Transit Observations: HD 189733b

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kar, Aman; Cole, Jackson Lane; Gardner, Cristilyn N.; Garver, Bethany Ray; Jarka, Kyla L.; McGough, Aylin Marie; PeQueen, David Jeffrey; Rivera, Daniel Ivan; Kasper, David; Jang-Condell, Hannah; Kobulnicky, Henry; Dale, Daniel

2018-01-01

Observing the transits of exoplanets in multiple wavelengths enables the characterization of their atmospheres. We used the Wyoming Infrared Observatory to obtain high precision photometry on HD 189733b, one of the most studied exoplanets. We employed the photometry package AIJ and Bayesian statistics in our analysis. Preliminary results suggest a wavelength dependence in the size of the exoplanet, indicative of scattering in the atmosphere. This work is supported by the National Science Foundation under REU grant AST 1560461.

Common Proper Motion Companions to Nearby Stars: Ages and Evolution

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-11-01

supplying the stars with NIR magnitudes from 2MASS . This allowed Gould & Chaname (2004) to estimate, for the first time, trigonometric parallaxes of...sup- plemented by BVR optical photometry, mainly from USNO-B, and JHK near-IR photometry from 2MASS . This catalog covers the entire magnitude range...for the Schmidt plate data used in the USNO-B catalog, with possible local offsets up to about 300 mas. Systematic errors in UCAC2 and 2MASS are much

On the colour variations of negative superhumps

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Imada, Akira; Yanagisawa, Kenshi; Kawai, Nobuyuki

2018-06-01

We present simultaneous g΄, Rc, and Ic photometry of the notable dwarf nova ER UMa during the 2011 season. Our photometry revealed that the brightness maxima of negative superhumps coincide with the bluest peaks in g΄ - Ic colour variations. We also found that the amplitudes of negative superhumps are the largest in the g΄ band. These observed properties are significantly different from those observed in early and positive superhumps. Our findings are consistent with a tilted disk model as the light source of negative superhumps.

Stellar integrated fluxes for 216 stars in the wavelength range 380 nm-900 NM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Petford, A. D.; Blackwell, D. E.; Booth, A. J.; Haddock, D. J.; Leggett, S. K.; Mountain, C. M.; Selby, M. J.; Arribas, S.

1988-09-01

The paper reports measurements of the integrated fluxes over the wavelength range 380 nm - 900 nm for 216 stars using a Reticon spectrometer in conjunction with the 1 m Kapteyn telescope of the Observatorio del Roque de los Muchachos of the Instituto de Astrofisica de Canarias. Methods are proposed for deriving visible integrated fluxes from 13-colour photometry, UBVRI and BV photometry. Such fluxes are useful for deriving stellar effective temperatures and angular diameters.

Broadband Photometry of the Potentially Hazardous Asteroid 2013 RH74

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hicks, M.; Ebelhar, S.

2013-11-01

The Near-Earth Asteroid (NEA) 2013 RH74 was discovered by the Catalina Sky Survey on September 15 2013 (MPEC 2013-S15) and has been designated as a Potentially Hazardous Asteroid (PHA) by the Minor Planet Center. We obtained six partial nights of broadband Bessel BVRI photometry at the JPL Table Mountain 0.6-m telescope (TMO), as summarized in Table 1. This object was detected by planetary radar soon after discovery (http://echo.jpl.nasa.gov/asteroids/index.html).

Reduction to Outside the Atmosphere and Statistical Tests Used in Geneva Photometry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rufener, F.

1984-01-01

Conditions for creating a precise photometric system are investigated. The analytical and discriminatory potentials of a photometry obviously result from the localization of the passbands in the spectrum; they do, however, also depend critically on the precision attained. This precision is the result of two different types of precautions. Two procedures which contribute in an efficient manner to achieving greater precision are examined. These two methods are known as hardware related precision and software related precision.

MYRaf: An Easy Aperture Photometry GUI for IRAF

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Niaei, M. S.; KiliÇ, Y.; Özeren, F. F.

2015-07-01

We describe the design and development of MYRaf, a GUI (Graphical User Interface) that aims to be completely open-source under General Public License (GPL). MYRaf is an easy to use, reliable, and a fast IRAF aperture photometry GUI tool for those who are conversant with text-based software and command-line procedures in GNU/Linux OSs. MYRaf uses IRAF, PyRAF, matplotlib, ginga, alipy, and SExtractor with the general-purpose and high-level programming language Python, and uses the Qt framework.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Polarimetry & photometry of GRB with RINGO2 (Steele+, 2017)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Steele, I. A.; Kopac, D.; Arnold, D. M.; Smith, R. J.; Kobayashi, S.; Jermak, H. E.; Mundell, C. G.; Gomboc, A.; Guidorzi, C.; Melandri, A.; Japelj, J.

2018-03-01

Between 2010 and 2012, 19 optical afterglows were observed with the RINGO2 polarimeter on the Liverpool Telescope (LT) at La Palma. Table 2 shows observational properties of the complete sample. In addition to the RINGO2 observations, optical band photometry of each burst was carried out using the RATCam CCD imaging camera on the same telescope, using either g'r'i' or r'i'z' filter sequences, in intervals between and after the RINGO2 observations. (3 data files).

CCD-photometry of comets at large heliocentric distances

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mueller, Beatrice E. A.

1992-01-01

CCD imaging and time series photometry are used to determine the state of activity, nuclear properties and eventually the rotational motion of cometary nuclei. Cometary activity at large heliocentric distances and mantle evolution are not yet fully understood. Results of observations carried out at the 2.1 telescope on Kitt Peak April 10-12 and May 15-16, 1991 are discussed. Color values and color-color diagrams are presented for several comets and asteroids. Estimations of nuclear radii and shapes are given.

Propagation of Bayesian Belief for Near-Real Time Statistical Assessment of Geosynchronous Satellite Status Based on Non-Resolved Photometry Data

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-09-01

of the BRDF for the Body and Panel. In order to provide a continuously updated baseline, the Photometry Model application is performed using a...brightness to its predicted brightness. The brightness predictions can be obtained using any analytical model chosen by the user. The inference for a...the analytical model as possible; and to mitigate the effect of bias that could be introduced by the choice of analytical model . It considers that a

The March 1995 superoutburst of the SU Ursae Majoris star AK Cancri: photometry and superhumps.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mennickent, R. E.; Nogami, D.; Kato, T.; Worraker, W.

1996-11-01

We present differential photometry of AK Cnc obtained during its March 1995 superoutburst. Superhumps with amplitude of 0.2mag appeared within 4 days after maximum with a period of 0.06749(1)d. This result is used to estimate a likely orbital period of 0.065(2)d and a mass ratio (M_2_/M_1_) of 0.21. Photometric maxima and timings of 26 recorded outbursts imply an average cycle length of 47 days.

Documentation for the machine-readable version of the thirteen color photometry of 1380 bright stars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Warren, W. H., Jr.; Roman, N. G.

1981-01-01

The magnetic tape version of the catalogue of thirteen-color photometry of 1380 bright stars, containing data on the 13 color medium narrow band photometric system is described. Observations of essentially all stars brighter than fifth visual magnitude north of delta = -20 deg and brighter than fourth visual magnitude south of delta = -20 deg are included. It is intended to enable users to read and process the tape without the common difficulties and uncertainties.

Establishing Alpha Oph as a Prototype Rotator: Improved Astrometric Orbit

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-01-10

astrometric characterization of the companion orbit. We also use photometry from these observations to derive a model-based estimate of the companion mass. A...uncertainties. In addition to the dynamically derived masses, we use IJHK photometry to derive a model-based mass for α Oph B, of 0.77 ± 0.05 M...man 1966; Gatewood 2005) with a 8.62 yr period, well estab- lished over several decades of monitoring and first resolved by McCarthy (1983). But a

VizieR Online Data Catalog: HK photometry in an UCHII region near Sh2-217 (Brand+, 2011)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brand, J.; Massi, F.; Zavagno, A.; Deharveng, L.; Lefloch, B.

2010-11-01

Coordinates and photometric parameters (magnitudes and colours) are presented of the stars located in a molecular condensation on the SW-border of the Galactic HII region Sh2-217. The data were obtained on January 4, 2004 with the 3.58-m Telescopio Nazionale Galileo (TNG; La Palma, Canary Islands, Spain). Near-infrared observations were carried out through H and K' broad-band filters with the camera NICS. The image scale is 0.25arcsec/pixel, yielding a field of view of about 4.2'x4.2'. Observing strategy and exposure times are described in Deharveng et al. (2006A&A...458..191D), the only difference being that the dithering sequence for the H-band images was the same as adopted for K'. The data reduction steps adopted are outlined in Deharveng et al. (2006A&A...458..191D). Aperture photometry was done using the DAOPHOT package in IRAF. We followed the same procedure described in Deharveng et al. (2006A&A...458..191D) to obtain aperture photometry, after which PSF-fitting photometry was performed. Although the seeing was good (<1"), the night was barely photometric, so we calibrated our H, K' photometry with that performed on the same field by Deharveng et al. (2003, Cat. J/A+A/399/1135). We calculated the difference in magnitudes for each coinciding source and plotted it against our derived instrumental H-K'. A colour term was present in K' because of the difference between the K and K' filters. After a best-fit calibration, a residual r.m.s. of about 0.2mag. was present in the difference between our photometry and that of Deharveng et al. (2003, J/A+A/399/1135), probably because of the different seeing and possibly also due to the intrinsic variability of young stars. Our photometry is thus on the same HK standard system as Deharveng et al. (2003, J/A+A/399/1135). Sources with K, H < 11-12 are in the non-linear regime or saturated, but such bright objects are few in number and lie outside the cluster, and are probably foreground stars. The approximate limiting magnitudes are K=18.48 and H=19.52, much deeper than achieved by Deharveng et al. (2003, J/A+A/399/1135). We estimate completeness limits of approximately K=16.5 and H=17.5 from the peak in histograms of the number of detected sources as a function of magnitude, after binning in 1mag. intervals. The astrometric calibration of the frames was obtained by measuring the position on the image of a sample of stars and fitting those positions to the equatorial coordinates given by Deharveng et al. (2006A&A...458..191D), using tasks of STSDAS/IRAF. The typical accuracy of this procedure is of the order of 1". (1 data file).

Deriving Stellar Masses for the ALFALFA α.100 Sample

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hess, Logan; Cornell 2017 Summer REU

2018-01-01

For this project, we explore different methods of deriving the stellar masses of galaxies in the ALFALFA (Arecibo Legacy Fast ALFA) α.100 survey. In particular, we measure the effectiveness of SED (Spectral Energy Distribution) on the sample. SED fitting was preformed by MAGPHYS (Multi-wavelength Analysis of Galaxy Physical Properties), utilizing a wide range of photometry in the UV, optical, and IR bands. Photometry was taken from GALAX GR6/7 (UV), SDSS DR13 (optical), WISE All-Sky (near-IR), and Herschel PACS/SPIRE (far-IR). The efficiency of SED fitting increases with a broader range of photometry, however detection rates varied significantly across the different bands. Using a more “comprehensive” sample of galaxies, the GSWLC-A (GALAX, SDSS, WISE Legacy Catalog All-Sky Survey), we aimed to measure which combination of bands provided the largest sample return with the lowest amount of uncertainty, which could then be used to estimate the masses of the galaxies in the α.100 sample.

A Search for Transits of Proxima b in MOST Photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kipping, David M.

2017-01-01

The recent discovery of a potentially rocky planet in the habitable-zone of our nearest star presents exciting prospects for future detailed characterization of another world. If Proxima b transits its star, the road to characterization would be considerably eased. In 2014 and 2015, we monitored Proxima Centauri with the Canadian space telescope MOST for a total of 43 days. As expected, the star presents considerable photometric variability due to flares, which greatly complicate our analysis. Using Gaussian process regression and Bayesian model selection with informative priors for the time of transit of Proxima b, we do find evidence for a transit of the expected depth. However, relaxing the prior on the transit time to an uninformative one returns a distinct solution highlighting the high false-positive rate induced by flaring. Using ground-based photometry from HATSouth, we show that our candidate transit is unlikely to be genuine although a conclusive answer will likely require infrared photometry, such as that from Spitzer, where flaring should be suppressed.

PHOTOMETRY OF VARIABLE STARS FROM DOME A, ANTARCTICA

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wang Lingzhi; Macri, Lucas M.; Krisciunas, Kevin

Dome A on the Antarctic plateau is likely one of the best observing sites on Earth thanks to the excellent atmospheric conditions present at the site during the long polar winter night. We present high-cadence time-series aperture photometry of 10,000 stars with i < 14.5 mag located in a 23 deg{sup 2} region centered on the south celestial pole. The photometry was obtained with one of the CSTAR telescopes during 128 days of the 2008 Antarctic winter. We used this photometric data set to derive site statistics for Dome A and to search for variable stars. Thanks to the nearlymore » uninterrupted synoptic coverage, we found six times as many variables as previous surveys with similar magnitude limits. We detected 157 variable stars, of which 55% were unclassified, 27% were likely binaries, and 17% were likely pulsating stars. The latter category includes {delta} Scuti, {gamma} Doradus, and RR Lyrae variables. One variable may be a transiting exoplanet.« less

Spectroscopic parallaxes of MAP region stars from UBVRI, DDO, and uvbyH-beta photometry. [Multichannel Astrometric Photometer for astronomical observation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Persinger, Tim; Castelaz, Michael W.

1990-01-01

This paper presents the results of spectral type and luminosity classification of reference stars in the Allegheny Observatory MAP parallax program, using broadband and intermediate-band photometry. In addition to the use of UBVRI and DDO photometric systems, the uvbyH-beta photometric system was included for classification of blue (B - V less than 0.6) reference stars. The stellar classifications made from the photometry are used to determine spectroscopic parallaxes. The spectroscopic parallaxes are used in turn to adjust the relative parallaxes measured with the MAP to absolute parallaxes. A new method for dereddening stars using more than one photometric system is presented. In the process of dereddening, visual extinctions, spectral types, and luminosity classes are determined, as well as a measure of the goodness of fit. The measure of goodness of fit quantifies confidence in the stellar classifications. It is found that the spectral types are reliable to within 2.5 spectral subclasses.

Upgrades to MINERVA control software

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wilson, Maurice; Eastman, Jason D.

2017-01-01

The MINiature Exoplanet Radial Velocity Array (MINERVA) is an array of four robotic telescopes located on Mt. Hopkins in Arizona that will find and characterize rocky planets around our nearest stars. We discuss the latest upgrades to the MINERVA robotic control software. Previously, our robotic control software was only capable of taking radial velocities or photometry for the entire night, but not both. We have recently increased the speed and ease of transitioning between photometry and radial velocity (RV) observations. We can now arbitrarily assign a subset of the telescopes to either photometric or spectroscopic observations. This capability enables us to monitor stellar activity while measuring the star’s RV, gather photometry on one star while continuing our RV survey of other targets and provide education and public outreach opportunities where others can observe with one or more telescopes while we continue using the remaining telescopes for research. This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program under Grant No. 1144152.

Standard Galactic Field RR Lyrae. I. Optical to Mid-infrared Phased Photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Monson, Andrew J.; Beaton, Rachael L.; Scowcroft, Victoria; Freedman, Wendy L.; Madore, Barry F.; Rich, Jeffrey A.; Seibert, Mark; Kollmeier, Juna A.; Clementini, Gisella

2017-03-01

We present a multi-wavelength compilation of new and previously published photometry for 55 Galactic field RR Lyrae variables. Individual studies, spanning a time baseline of up to 30 years, are self-consistently phased to produce light curves in 10 photometric bands covering the wavelength range from 0.4 to 4.5 microns. Data smoothing via the GLOESS technique is described and applied to generate high-fidelity light curves, from which mean magnitudes, amplitudes, rise times, and times of minimum and maximum light are derived. 60,000 observations were acquired using the new robotic Three-hundred MilliMeter Telescope (TMMT), which was first deployed at the Carnegie Observatories in Pasadena, CA, and is now permanently installed and operating at Las Campanas Observatory in Chile. We provide a full description of the TMMT hardware, software, and data reduction pipeline. Archival photometry contributed approximately 31,000 observations. Photometric data are given in the standard Johnson UBV, Kron-Cousins {R}C{I}C, 2MASS JHK, and Spitzer [3.6] and [4.5] bandpasses.

The T dwarf population in the UKIDSS LAS .

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cardoso, C. V.; Burningham, B.; Smith, L.; Smart, R.; Pinfield, D.; Magazzù, A.; Ghinassi, F.; Lattanzi, M.

We present the most recent results from the UKIDSS Large Area Survey (LAS) census and follow up of new T brown dwarfs in the local field. The new brown dwarf candidates are identified using optical and infrared survey photometry (UKIDSS and SDSS) and followed up with narrow band methane photometry (TNG) and spectroscopy (Gemini and Subaru) to confirm their brown dwarf nature. Employing this procedure we have discovered several dozens of new T brown dwarfs in the field. Using methane differential photometry as a proxy for spectral type for T brown dwarfs has proved to be a very efficient technique. This method can be useful in the future to reliably identify brown dwarfs in deep surveys that produce large samples of faint targets where spectroscopy is not feasible for all candidates. With this statistical robust sample of the mid and late T brown dwarf field population we were also able to address the discrepancies between the observed field space density and the expected values given the most accepted forms of the IMF of young clusters.

UVBY beta photometry of the young southern cluster NGC3293 and comparison with other young clusters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shobbrook, R. R.

1980-09-01

Stromgren uvby photometry has been obtained for 42 members and beta photometry for 37 members of the young southern galactic cluster NGC 3293. The distance modulus obtained from using Crawford's beta/M(V) calibration is 12.75 mag, corresponding to a distance of 3.55 kpc. Comparison of the colour/colour and the HR diagrams of NGC 3293 with those of the five other young northern and southern clusters reveals large differences between the clusters which may possibly be due to metal abundance variations across the Galaxy. Apparently correlated with this effect is a variation of the luminosities of the lower main sequences over about 1 mag. The fainter stars in the southern clusters appear to be an average of 0.7 mag brighter than those in the northern clusters, but it is not certain at present how much of this difference is due to possible systematic errors in the beta index zero point between the northern and southern hemispheres.

An Empirical UBV RI JHK Color-Temperature Calibration for Stars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Worthey, Guy; Lee, Hyun-chul

2011-03-01

A collection of Johnson/Cousins photometry for stars with known [Fe/H] is used to generate color-color relations that include the abundance dependence. Literature temperature and bolometric correction (BC) dependences are attached to the color relations. The JHK colors are transformed to the Bessell & Brett homogenized system. The main result of this work is the tabulation of seven colors and the V-band BC as a function of T eff, log g, and [Fe/H] for -1.06 < V - K < 10.2 and an accompanying interpolation program. Improvements to the present calibration would involve filling photometry gaps, obtaining more accurate and on-system photometry, knowing better log g and [Fe/H] values, improving the statistics for data-impoverished groups of stars such as metal-poor K dwarfs, applying small tweaks in the processing pipeline, and obtaining better empirical temperature and BC relations, especially for supergiants and M stars. A way to estimate dust extinction from M dwarf colors is pointed out.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: UBVRIJHK color-temperature calibration (Worthey+, 2011)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Worthey, G.; Lee, H.-C.

2011-04-01

A collection of Johnson/Cousins photometry for stars with known [Fe/H] is used to generate color-color relations that include the abundance dependence. Literature temperature and bolometric correction (BC) dependences are attached to the color relations. The JHK colors are transformed to the Bessell & Brett (1988PASP..100.1134B) homogenized system. The main result of this work is the tabulation of seven colors and the V-band BC as a function of Teff, logg, and [Fe/H] for -1.06

Optimization of Exposure Time Division for Multi-object Photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Popowicz, Adam; Kurek, Aleksander R.

2017-09-01

Optical observations of wide fields of view entail the problem of selecting the best exposure time. As many objects are usually observed simultaneously, the quality of photometry of the brightest ones is always better than that of the dimmer ones, even though all of them are frequently equally interesting for astronomers. Thus, measuring all objects with the highest possible precision is desirable. In this paper, we present a new optimization algorithm, dedicated for the division of exposure time into sub-exposures, which enables photometry with a more balanced noise budget. The proposed technique increases the photometric precision of dimmer objects at the expense of the measurement fidelity of the brightest ones. We have tested the method on real observations using two telescope setups, demonstrating its usefulness and good consistency with theoretical expectations. The main application of our approach is a wide range of sky surveys, including ones performed by space telescopes. The method can be used to plan virtually any photometric observation of objects that show a wide range of magnitudes.

Comparative Analysis of Anterior Chamber Flare Grading between Clinicians with Different Levels of Experience and Semi-automated Laser Flare Photometry.

PubMed

Agrawal, Rupesh; Keane, Pearse A; Singh, Jasmin; Saihan, Zubin; Kontos, Andreas; Pavesio, Carlos E

2016-01-01

To assess correlation for anterior chamber flare grading between clinicians with different levels of experience and with semi-automated flare reading in a cohort of patients with heterogeneous uveitic entities. Fifty-nine observations from 36 patients were recorded and analyzed for statistical association. In each patient, flare was assessed objectively using the Kowa FM-700 laser flare photometer, and subjective masked grading by two clinicians was performed. The study demonstrated disparity in flare readings between clinical graders with one step disagreement in clinical grading in 26 (44.06%) eyes (p < 0.001) and concordance between the flare readings by experienced grader and flare photometry. After review of semi-automated flare readings, management was changed in 11% of the patients. Laser flare photometry can be a valuable tool to remove the observer bias in grading flare for selected cohort of uveitis patients. It can be further applied to titrate therapy in intraocular inflammation.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: YSO candidates in the Magellanic Bridge (Chen+, 2014)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, C.-H. R.; Indebetouw, R.; Muller, E.; Kawamura, A.; Gordon, K. D.; Sewilo, M.; Whitney, B. A.; Fukui, Y.; Madden, S. C.; Meade, M. R.; Meixner, M.; Oliveira, J. M.; Robitaille, T. P.; Seale, J. P.; Shiao, B.; van Loon, J. Th.

2017-06-01

The Spitzer observations of the Bridge were obtained as part of the Legacy Program "Surveying the Agents of Galaxy Evolution in the Tidally-Stripped, Low-Metallicity Small Magellanic Cloud" (SAGE-SMC; Gordon et al. 2011AJ....142..102G). These observations included images taken at 3.6, 4.5, 5.8, and 8.0 um bands with the InfraRed Array Camera (IRAC) and at 24, 70, and 160 um bands with the Multiband Imaging Photometer for Spitzer (MIPS). The details of data processing are given in Gordon et al. (2011AJ....142..102G). To construct multi-wavelength SEDs for sources in the Spitzer catalog, we have expanded it by adding photometry from optical and NIR surveys covering the Bridge, i.e., BRI photometry from the Super COSMOS Sky Surveys (SSS; Hambly et al. 2001MNRAS.326.1279H) and JHKs photometry from the Two Micron All Sky Survey (2MASS; Skrutskie et al. 2006AJ....131.1163S, Cat. VII/233). (5 data files).

An Improved Technique for the Photometry and Astrometry of Faint Companions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burke, Daniel; Gladysz, Szymon; Roberts, Lewis; Devaney, Nicholas; Dainty, Chris

2009-07-01

We propose a new approach to differential astrometry and photometry of faint companions in adaptive optics images. It is based on a prewhitening matched filter, also referred to in the literature as the Hotelling observer. We focus on cases where the signal of the companion is located within the bright halo of the parent star. Using real adaptive optics data from the 3 m Shane telescope at the Lick Observatory, we compare the performance of the Hotelling algorithm with other estimation algorithms currently used for the same problem. The real single-star data are used to generate artificial binary objects with a range of magnitude ratios. In most cases, the Hotelling observer gives significantly lower astrometric and photometric errors. In the case of high Strehl ratio (SR) data (SR ≈ 0.5), the differential photometry of a binary star with a Δm = 4.5 and a separation of 0.6″ is better than 0.1 mag a factor of 2 lower than the other algorithms considered.

The CCD Photometric Calibration Cookbook

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Palmer, J.; Davenhall, A. C.

This cookbook presents simple recipes for the photometric calibration of CCD frames. Using these recipes you can calibrate the brightness of objects measured in CCD frames into magnitudes in standard photometric systems, such as the Johnson-Morgan UBV, system. The recipes use standard software available at all Starlink sites. The topics covered include: selecting standard stars, measuring instrumental magnitudes and calibrating instrumental magnitudes into a standard system. The recipes are appropriate for use with data acquired with optical CCDs and filters, operated in standard ways, and describe the usual calibration technique of observing standard stars. The software is robust and reliable, but the techniques are usually not suitable where very high accuracy is required. In addition to the recipes and scripts, sufficient background material is presented to explain the procedures and techniques used. The treatment is deliberately practical rather than theoretical, in keeping with the aim of providing advice on the actual calibration of observations. This cookbook is aimed firmly at people who are new to astronomical photometry. Typical readers might have a set of photometric observations to reduce (perhaps observed by a colleague) or be planning a programme of photometric observations, perhaps for the first time. No prior knowledge of astronomical photometry is assumed. The cookbook is not aimed at experts in astronomical photometry. Many finer points are omitted for clarity and brevity. Also, in order to make the most accurate possible calibration of high-precision photometry, it is usually necessary to use bespoke software tailored to the observing programme and photometric system you are using.

COLOR OF THE STARS: Oh Be A Fine Girl, Kiss Me!

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zambrano, L. F.; Boyle, R. P.; Janusz, R.; University-School "Ignatianum" Kracow, Poland Collaboration; A. G. Davis-InstituteSpace Observations Collaboration

2005-12-01

Classification of stars by color is important in stellar studies because from it we are able to attain essential information about stars like: temperature, composition, age and mass; from these we can also derive its history, and future evolution!. This classification can be done by photometry or spectroscopy. Photometry provides information from more stars in a given field of view, magnitude and approximate size. The Strömvil photometric system, developed by V. Straizys (Vilnius Observatory, Lithuania), allows more precise photometry using 7 filters, ranging from 330-700 nm. Since the color of a star is associated with the wavelength of the electromagnetic radiation of light emitted by it, each filter allows only certain wavelengths to go through into the CCD camera; then, each neighboring wavelength band can be compared against the others and the color relationship can be converted to magnitude. Our Milky Way galaxy has billions of stars, of which we only have information from a small set. We obtained images of the NGC6811 and NGC6819 Open clusters, and the M56 Globular cluster at the Vatican Advanced Technology Telescope in Mt Graham AZ. During an 8 night observing run, images were taken in each filter with 3 different pointings overlapping by 2 arc-min. Calibration by known standards from A. Kazlauskas (e.i. Baltic Astronomy Vol II) that fall in the observed regions will be done. From this photometry other star information; such as luminosity, distance, metallicity, surface gravity, and spectral class will be determined.

A CCD Search for Variable Stars of Spectral Type B in the Northern Hemisphere Open Clusters. VII. NGC 1502

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Michalska, G.; Pigulski, A.; Stęlicki, M.; Narwid, A.

2009-12-01

We present results of variability search in the field of the young open cluster NGC 1502. Eight variable stars were discovered. Of six other stars in the observed field that were suspected for variability, we confirm variability of two, including one β Cep star, NGC 1502-26. The remaining four suspects were found to be constant in our photometry. In addition, UBVIC photometry of the well-known massive eclipsing binary SZ Cam was obtained. The new variable stars include: two eclipsing binaries of which one is a relatively bright detached system with an EA-type light curve, an α2 CVn-type variable, an SPB candidate, a field RR Lyr star and three other variables showing variability of unknown origin. The variability of two of them is probably related to their emission in Hα, which has been measured by means of the α index obtained for 57 stars brighter than V≍16 mag in the central part of the observed field. Four other non-variable stars with emission in Hα were also found. Additionally, we provide VIC photometry for stars down to V=17 mag and UB photometry for about 50 brightest stars in the observed field. We also show that the 10 Myr isochrone fits very well the observed color-magnitude diagram if a distance of 1 kpc and mean reddening, E(V-IC)=0.9 mag are adopted.

Characterization of the Surface Properties of MUSES-C/Hayabusa Spacecraft Target Asteroid 25143 Itokawa (1998 SF36)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lederer, S. M.; Domingue, D. L.; Vilas, F.; Abe, M.; Farnham, T. L.; Jarvis, K. S.; Lowry, S. C.; Ohba, Y.; Weissman, P. R.; French, L. M.

2004-01-01

Several spacecraft missions have recently targeted asteroids to study their morphologies and physical properties (e.g. Galileo, NEAR Shoemaker), and more are planned. MUSES-C is a Japanese mission designed to rendezvous with a near-Earth asteroid (NEA). The MUSES-C spacecraft, Hayabusa, was launched successfully in May 2003. It will rendezvous with its target asteroid in 2005, and return samples to the Earth in 2007. Its target, 25143 Itokawa (1998 SF36), made a close approach to the Earth in 2001. We collected an extensive ground-based database of broadband photometry obtained during this time, which maximized the phase angle coverage, to characterize this target in preparation for the mission. Our project was designed to capitalize on the broadband UBVRI photometric observations taken with a series of telescopes, instrumentation, and observers. Photometry and spectrophotometry of Itokawa were acquired at Lowell, McDonald, Steward, Palomar, Table Mountain and Kiso Observatories. The photometric data sets were combined to calculate Hapke model parameters of the surface material of Itokawa, and examine the solar-corrected broadband color characteristics of the asteroid. Broadband photometry of an object can be used to: (1) determine its colors and thereby contribute to the understanding of its surface composition and taxonomic class, and (2) infer global physical surface properties of the target body. We present both colors from UBVRI observations of the MUSES-C target Itokawa, and physical properties derived by applying a Hapke model to the broadband BVRI photometry.

100 years of photometry and radiometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hardis, Jonathan E.

2001-06-01

Measurement of light is an old subject, though the past 100 years have seen significant advances. 100 years ago, photometry - the art and science of measuring light as it is perceived by people - had the greater technological importance. Even today SI (the metric system) retains a base unit for photometry, the candela. However, early work at NBS included pivotal projects in the field of radiometry - the measurement of the physical characteristics of light. These included the validation of Planck's newly-minted theory of blackbody radiation, determining the radiation constants with good accuracy, and the definitive analysis of the spectral responsivity of human vision, so as to relate photometry to radiometry. This latter work has only increased in importance over the past 75 years as the definition of the candela has changed and improved. Today, NIST makes radiometric, and hence photometric measurements, with unprecedented precision. Cryogenic radiometers based on the principle of electrical substitution measure optical flux with uncertainties of 0.02%. Additional facilities enable measurement of spectral responsivity, spectral radiance, and spectral irradiance. Novel detectors, such as light-traps, allow the best accuracy to be transferred from the primary standards to routinely-used instruments and to calibration customers. Filtered detectors are used to realize photometric scales, radiation temperature scales, and other specialized measurements. Indeed, the story of the metrology of light is the story of continuous improvement, both driven by and enabled by advances in technology. We touch upon some of these as a prelude to the other talks in this Conference.

Morpho-z: improving photometric redshifts with galaxy morphology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Soo, John Y. H.; Moraes, Bruno; Joachimi, Benjamin; Hartley, William; Lahav, Ofer; Charbonnier, Aldée; Makler, Martín; Pereira, Maria E. S.; Comparat, Johan; Erben, Thomas; Leauthaud, Alexie; Shan, Huanyuan; Van Waerbeke, Ludovic

2018-04-01

We conduct a comprehensive study of the effects of incorporating galaxy morphology information in photometric redshift estimation. Using machine learning methods, we assess the changes in the scatter and outlier fraction of photometric redshifts when galaxy size, ellipticity, Sérsic index, and surface brightness are included in training on galaxy samples from the SDSS and the CFHT Stripe-82 Survey (CS82). We show that by adding galaxy morphological parameters to full ugriz photometry, only mild improvements are obtained, while the gains are substantial in cases where fewer passbands are available. For instance, the combination of grz photometry and morphological parameters almost fully recovers the metrics of 5-band photometric redshifts. We demonstrate that with morphology it is possible to determine useful redshift distribution N(z) of galaxy samples without any colour information. We also find that the inclusion of quasar redshifts and associated object sizes in training improves the quality of photometric redshift catalogues, compensating for the lack of a good star-galaxy separator. We further show that morphological information can mitigate biases and scatter due to bad photometry. As an application, we derive both point estimates and posterior distributions of redshifts for the official CS82 catalogue, training on morphology and SDSS Stripe-82 ugriz bands when available. Our redshifts yield a 68th percentile error of 0.058(1 + z), and a outlier fraction of 5.2 per cent. We further include a deep extension trained on morphology and single i-band CS82 photometry.

Theoretical Clues to the Ultraviolet Diversity of Type Ia Supernovae

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brown, Peter J.; Baron, E.; Milne, Peter; Roming, Peter W. A.; Wang, Lifan

2015-08-01

The effect of metallicity on the observed light of Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia) could lead to systematic errors as the absolute magnitudes of local and distant SNe Ia are compared to measure luminosity distances and determine cosmological parameters. The UV light may be especially sensitive to metallicity, though different modeling methods disagree as to the magnitude, wavelength dependence, and even the sign of the effect. The outer density structure, 56Ni, and to a lesser degree asphericity, also impact the UV. We compute synthetic photometry of various metallicity-dependent models and compare to UV/optical photometry from the Swift Ultra-Violet/Optical Telescope. We find that the scatter in the mid-UV to near-UV colors is larger than predicted by changes in metallicity alone and is not consistent with reddening. We demonstrate that a recently employed method to determine relative abundances using UV spectra can be done using UVOT photometry, but we warn that accurate results require an accurate model of the cause of the variations. The abundance of UV photometry now available should provide constraints on models that typically rely on UV spectroscopy for constraining metallicity, density, and other parameters. Nevertheless, UV spectroscopy for a variety of supernova explosions is still needed to guide the creation of accurate models. A better understanding of the influences affecting the UV is important for using SNe Ia as cosmological probes, as the UV light may test whether SNe Ia are significantly affected by evolutionary effects.

A Search for the Transit of HD 168443b: Improved Orbital Parameters and Photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pilyavsky, Genady; Mahadevan, Suvrath; Kane, Stephen R.; Howard, Andrew W.; Ciardi, David R.; de Pree, Chris; Dragomir, Diana; Fischer, Debra; Henry, Gregory W.; Jensen, Eric L. N.; Laughlin, Gregory; Marlowe, Hannah; Rabus, Markus; von Braun, Kaspar; Wright, Jason T.; Wang, Xuesong X.

2011-12-01

The discovery of transiting planets around bright stars holds the potential to greatly enhance our understanding of planetary atmospheres. In this work we present the search for transits of HD 168443b, a massive planet orbiting the bright star HD 168443 (V = 6.92) with a period of 58.11 days. The high eccentricity of the planetary orbit (e = 0.53) significantly enhances the a priori transit probability beyond that expected for a circular orbit, making HD 168443 a candidate for our ongoing Transit Ephemeris Refinement and Monitoring Survey. Using additional radial velocities from Keck High Resolution Echelle Spectrometer, we refined the orbital parameters of this multi-planet system and derived a new transit ephemeris for HD 168443b. The reduced uncertainties in the transit window make a photometric transit search practicable. Photometric observations acquired during predicted transit windows were obtained on three nights. Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory 1.0 m photometry acquired on 2010 September 7 had the required precision to detect a transit but fell just outside of our final transit window. Nightly photometry from the T8 0.8 m automated photometric telescope at Fairborn Observatory, acquired over a span of 109 nights, demonstrates that HD 168443 is constant on a timescale of weeks. Higher-cadence photometry on 2011 April 28 and June 25 shows no evidence of a transit. We are able to rule out a non-grazing transit of HD 168443b.

Improving photometric redshift estimation using GPZ: size information, post processing, and improved photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gomes, Zahra; Jarvis, Matt J.; Almosallam, Ibrahim A.; Roberts, Stephen J.

2018-03-01

The next generation of large-scale imaging surveys (such as those conducted with the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope and Euclid) will require accurate photometric redshifts in order to optimally extract cosmological information. Gaussian Process for photometric redshift estimation (GPZ) is a promising new method that has been proven to provide efficient, accurate photometric redshift estimations with reliable variance predictions. In this paper, we investigate a number of methods for improving the photometric redshift estimations obtained using GPZ (but which are also applicable to others). We use spectroscopy from the Galaxy and Mass Assembly Data Release 2 with a limiting magnitude of r < 19.4 along with corresponding Sloan Digital Sky Survey visible (ugriz) photometry and the UKIRT Infrared Deep Sky Survey Large Area Survey near-IR (YJHK) photometry. We evaluate the effects of adding near-IR magnitudes and angular size as features for the training, validation, and testing of GPZ and find that these improve the accuracy of the results by ˜15-20 per cent. In addition, we explore a post-processing method of shifting the probability distributions of the estimated redshifts based on their Quantile-Quantile plots and find that it improves the bias by ˜40 per cent. Finally, we investigate the effects of using more precise photometry obtained from the Hyper Suprime-Cam Subaru Strategic Program Data Release 1 and find that it produces significant improvements in accuracy, similar to the effect of including additional features.

Inferring planetary obliquity using rotational and orbital photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schwartz, J. C.; Sekowski, C.; Haggard, H. M.; Pallé, E.; Cowan, N. B.

2016-03-01

The obliquity of a terrestrial planet is an important clue about its formation and critical to its climate. Previous studies using simulated photometry of Earth show that continuous observations over most of a planet's orbit can be inverted to infer obliquity. However, few studies of more general planets with arbitrary albedo markings have been made and, in particular, a simple theoretical understanding of why it is possible to extract obliquity from light curves is missing. Reflected light seen by a distant observer is the product of a planet's albedo map, its host star's illumination, and the visibility of different regions. It is useful to treat the product of illumination and visibility as the kernel of a convolution. Time-resolved photometry constrains both the albedo map and the kernel, the latter of which sweeps over the planet due to rotational and orbital motion. The kernel's movement distinguishes prograde from retrograde rotation for planets with non-zero obliquity on inclined orbits. We demonstrate that the kernel's longitudinal width and mean latitude are distinct functions of obliquity and axial orientation. Notably, we find that a planet's spin axis affects the kernel - and hence time-resolved photometry - even if this planet is east-west uniform or spinning rapidly, or if it is north-south uniform. We find that perfect knowledge of the kernel at 2-4 orbital phases is usually sufficient to uniquely determine a planet's spin axis. Surprisingly, we predict that east-west albedo contrast is more useful for constraining obliquity than north-south contrast.

Multicolour CCD surface photometry for E and S0 galaxies in 10 clusters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jorgensen, Inger; Franx, Marijn; Kjaergaard, Per

1995-04-01

CCD surface photometry for 232 E and S0 galaxies is presented. The galaxies are observed in Gunn r and Johnson B, or Gunn r and g. For 48 of the galaxies surface photometry in Johnson U is also presented. Aperture magnitudes in Gunn nu are derived for half of the galaxies. Galaxies in the following clusters have been observed: Abell 194, Abell 539, Abell 3381, Abell 3574, Abell S639, Abell S753, HydraI (Abell 1060), DC2345-28, Doradus and Grm15. The data are part of our ongoing study of the large-scale motions in the Universe and the physical background for the fundamental plane. We use a full model fitting technique for analysing the CCD images. This gives radial profiles of local surface brightness, colour, ellipticity and position angle. The residuals relative to the elliptical isophotes are described quantitatively by Fourier expansions. Effective radius, mean surface brightness and total magnitude are derived by fitting a de Vaucouleurs r^¼ growth curve. We have derived a characteristic radius r_n similar to the diameter D_n introduced by Dressler et al. The derivation of the effective parameters and of r_n takes the seeing into account. We confirm the results by Saglia et al. that the effects of the seeing can be substantial. Seeing-corrected values of the effective parameters and r_n are also presented for 147 E and S0 galaxies in the Coma cluster. Colours, colour gradients and geometrical parameters are derived. The photometry is internally consistent within 0.016 mag. Comparison with the photoelectric aperture photometry from Burstein et al. shows a mean offset of 0.010 mag with an rms scatter of 0.034 mag. The global photometric parameters are compared with data from Faber et al., Lucey et al. and Lucey & Carter. These comparisons imply that the typical rms errors are as follows - log r_n:+/-0.015 log r_e:+/-0.045 m_T:+/-0.09 mag; _e:+/-0.16 mag. The rms error on the combination log r_e-0.35_e which enters the fundamental plane is +/-0.020. Also, comparisons with data from Saglia et al. are presented. The accuracy of the absolute photometry, as well as the derived parameters, makes the data suitable for our investigations of the fundamental plane and of the large-scale motions in the Universe.

Nearby Type Ia Supernova Follow-up at the Thacher Observatory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Swift, Jonathan; O'Neill, Katie; Kilpatrick, Charles; Foley, Ryan

2018-06-01

Type Ia supernovae (SN Ia) provide an effective way to study the expansion of the universe through analyses of their photometry and spectroscopy. The interpretation of high-redshift SN Ia is dependent on accurate characterization of nearby, low-redshift targets. To help build up samples of nearby SN Ia, the Thacher Observatory has begun a photometric follow-up program in 4 photometric bands. Here we present the observations and analysis of multi-band photometry for several recent supernovae as well as FLOYDS spectra from the Las Cumbres Observatory.

Ultraviolet photometry of Nova Cygni 1992 obtained with the high speed photometer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Taylor, M.; Bless, R. C.; Oegelman, H.; Elliot, J. L.; Gallagher, J. S.; Nelson, M. J.; Percival, J. W.; Robinson, E. L.; Van Citters, G. W.

1994-01-01

In this Letter we present the first high-speed ultraviolet photometry of an active, classical nova, Nova Cygni 1992. The 45 minute observation shows significant evidence for power at frequencies that correspond to periods of about 565 and 900 s. Each of these periods has an amplitude of about 3 mmag. Since this data set is short, we cannot establish the nature of the detected variability and so, we discuss possible physical mechanisms ranging from short-lived phenomena to stable periodic modulations that could result in the observed variations.

15 years of comet photometry: A comparative analysis of 80 comets

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Osip, David J.; Schleicher, David G.; Millis, Robert L.; Hearn, M. F. A.; Birch, P. V.

1992-01-01

In 1976 we began a program of narrowband photometry of comets that has encompassed well over 400 nights of observations. To date, the program has provided detailed information on 80 comets, 11 of which have been observed on multiple apparitions. In this paper we present the observed range of compositions (molecular production rate ratios) and dustiness (gas production compared with AF-rho) for a well sampled group of comets. Based on these results we present preliminary analysis of taxonomic groupings as well as the abundance ratios we associate with a 'typical' comet.

DWARF IRREGULAR GALAXY LEO A: SUPRIME-CAM WIDE-FIELD STELLAR PHOTOMETRY

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Stonkutė, Rima; Narbutis, Donatas; Vansevičius, Vladas

2014-10-01

We have surveyed a complete extent of Leo A—an apparently isolated gas-rich low-mass dwarf irregular galaxy in the Local Group. The B, V, and I passband CCD images (typical seeing ∼0.''8) were obtained with the Subaru Telescope equipped with the Suprime-Cam mosaic camera. The wide-field (20' × 24') photometry catalog of 38,856 objects (V ∼ 16-26 mag) is presented. This survey is also intended to serve as ''a finding chart'' for future imaging and spectroscopic observation programs of Leo A.

Io hot spots - Infrared photometry of satellite occultations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goguen, J. D.; Matson, D. L.; Sinton, W. M.; Howell, R. R.; Dyck, H. M.

1988-01-01

Io's active hot spots, which are presently mapped on the basis of IR photometry of this moon's occultation by other Gallilean satellites, are obtained with greatest spatial resolution near the sub-earth point. A model is developed for the occultation lightcurves, and its fitting to the data defines the apparent path of the occulting satellite relative to Io; the mean error in apparent relative position of occulting satellites is of the order of 178 km. A heretofore unknown, 20-km diameter hot spot is noted on Io's leading hemisphere.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: CCD Hα and R photometry of 334 galaxies (James+, 2004)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

James, P. A.; Shane, N. S.; Beckman, J. E.; Cardwell, A.; Collins, C. A.; Etherton, J.; de Jong, R. S.; Fathi, K.; Knapen, J. H.; Peletier, R. F.; Percival, S. M.; Pollacco, D. L.; Seigar, M. S.; Stedman, S.; Steele, I. A.

2004-01-01

Hα plus [NII] and R-band CCD photometry and derived parameters are presented for the full sample of 334 spiral and irregular galaxies. Galaxy distances are derived using a Virgo-infall corrected model which is described in the paper, and star formation rates are derived from Hα plus [NII] fluxes using the conversion defined by Kennicutt et al. (1994ApJ...435...22K). The entries are arranged within five bins in recession velocity, and in order of increasing Right Ascension within these bins. (1 data file).

Synthetic filter photometry and evolutionary status of two Be stars in the association Per OB1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Torres, Ana V.

1987-01-01

Stromgren and H-beta colors have been determined from spectrophotometric observations for two Be stars without published photometry in the association Per OB1: HD 12856 (B0 pe) and HD 13890 (B1 III:pe). Stellar parameters and improved spectral types are then derived from the color indices using the calibrations of Jakobsen (1986), and independently from the BCD classification method. The intrinsic properties of HD 12856 and HD 13890 are compared with those of normal B stars and are used to estimate their evolutionary status.

Worldwide photometry and lightcurve observations of 1 Ceres during the 1975-1976 apparition

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tedesco, E. F.; Taylor, R. C.; Drummond, J.; Harwood, D.; Nickoloff, I.; Scaltriti, F.; Zappala, V.; Schober, H. J.

1983-01-01

Lightcurves and UBV photometry of Ceres from the 1975-1976 apparition are presented. The synodic period is 0.37812 + or 0.00004 day, the mean absolute V magnitude is 3.61 + or 0.03, and the phase coefficient is 0.040 + or - 0.001 mag/deg. The U-B and B-V phase coefficients are +0.0015 + or - 0.0007 and +0.0006 + or - 0.0003 mag/deg, respectively. The colors at zero phase are B-V = +0.70 + or - 0.01 and U-B = +0.41 + or 0.01.

Outer planet Grand Tour missions photometry/polarimetry experiment critical components study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pellicori, S. F.; Russell, E. E.; Watts, L. A.

1972-01-01

Work performed during this effort was limited to two primary areas of technical concern: optical design optimization, and sensor selection. An optical system concept was established, and various system components were evaluated through experimental test sequences. Photodetectors were investigated for the applicability in meeting OPGT requirements as constrained by the photometry/polarimetry team directives. The most promising (gallium arsenide PMT) was further experimentally tested to ascertain its behavior with respect to anticipated environmental conditions. Results of testing and summary of the preceding tradeoff study effort are presented.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: 8 Fermi GRB afterglows follow-up (Singer+, 2015)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singer, L. P.; Kasliwal, M. M.; Cenko, S. B.; Perley, D. A.; Anderson, G. E.; Anupama, G. C.; Arcavi, I.; Bhalerao, V.; Bue, B. D.; Cao, Y.; Connaughton, V.; Corsi, A.; Cucchiara, A.; Fender, R. P.; Fox, D. B.; Gehrels, N.; Goldstein, A.; Gorosabel, J.; Horesh, A.; Hurley, K.; Johansson, J.; Kann, D. A.; Kouveliotou, C.; Huang, K.; Kulkarni, S. R.; Masci, F.; Nugent, P.; Rau, A.; Rebbapragada, U. D.; Staley, T. D.; Svinkin, D.; Thone, C. C.; de Ugarte Postigo, A.; Urata, Y.; Weinstein, A.

2015-10-01

In this work, we present the GBM-iPTF (intermediate Palomar Transient Factory) afterglows from the first 13 months of this project. Follow-up observations include R-band photometry from the P48, multicolor photometry from the P60, spectroscopy (acquired with the P200, Keck, Gemini, APO, Magellan, Very Large Telescope (VLT), and GTC), and radio observations with the Very Large Array (VLA), the Combined Array for Research in Millimeter-wave Astronomy (CARMA), the Australia Telescope Compact Array (ATCA), and the Arcminute Microkelvin Imager (AMI). (3 data files).

The Double Contact Nature of TT Herculis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Terrell, Dirk; Nelson, Robert H.

2014-03-01

We present new radial velocities and photometry of the short-period Algol TT Herculis. Previous attempts to model the light curves of the system have met with limited success, primarily because of the lack of a reliable mass ratio. Our spectroscopic observations are the first to result in radial velocities for the secondary star, and thus provide a spectroscopic mass ratio. Simultaneous analysis of the radial velocities and new photometry shows that the system is a double contact binary, with a rapidly rotating primary that fills its limiting lobe.

On-line Flagging of Anomalies and Adaptive Sequential Hypothesis Testing for Fine-feature Characterization of Geosynchronous Satellites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chaudhary, A.; Payne, T.; Kinateder, K.; Dao, P.; Beecher, E.; Boone, D.; Elliott, B.

The objective of on-line flagging in this paper is to perform interactive assessment of geosynchronous satellites anomalies such as cross-tagging of a satellites in a cluster, solar panel offset change, etc. This assessment will utilize a Bayesian belief propagation procedure and will include automated update of baseline signature data for the satellite, while accounting for the seasonal changes. Its purpose is to enable an ongoing, automated assessment of satellite behavior through its life cycle using the photometry data collected during the synoptic search performed by a ground or space-based sensor as a part of its metrics mission. The change in the satellite features will be reported along with the probabilities of Type I and Type II errors. The objective of adaptive sequential hypothesis testing in this paper is to define future sensor tasking for the purpose of characterization of fine features of the satellite. The tasking will be designed in order to maximize new information with the least number of photometry data points to be collected during the synoptic search by a ground or space-based sensor. Its calculation is based on the utilization of information entropy techniques. The tasking is defined by considering a sequence of hypotheses in regard to the fine features of the satellite. The optimal observation conditions are then ordered in order to maximize new information about a chosen fine feature. The combined objective of on-line flagging and adaptive sequential hypothesis testing is to progressively discover new information about the features of a geosynchronous satellites by leveraging the regular but sparse cadence of data collection during the synoptic search performed by a ground or space-based sensor. Automated Algorithm to Detect Changes in Geostationary Satellite's Configuration and Cross-Tagging Phan Dao, Air Force Research Laboratory/RVB By characterizing geostationary satellites based on photometry and color photometry, analysts can evaluate satellite operational status and affirm its true identity. The process of ingesting photometry data and deriving satellite physical characteristics can be directed by analysts in a batch mode, meaning using a batch of recent data, or by automated algorithms in an on-line mode in which the assessment is updated with each new data point. Tools used for detecting change to satellite's status or identity, whether performed with a human in the loop or automated algorithms, are generally not built to detect with minimum latency and traceable confidence intervals. To alleviate those deficiencies, we investigate the use of Hidden Markov Models (HMM), in a Bayesian Network framework, to infer the hidden state (changed or unchanged) of a three-axis stabilized geostationary satellite using broadband and color photometry. Unlike frequentist statistics which exploit only the stationary statistics of the observables in the database, HMM also exploits the temporal pattern of the observables as well. The algorithm also operates in “learning” mode to gradually evolve the HMM and accommodate natural changes such as due to the seasonal dependence of GEO satellite's light curve. Our technique is designed to operate with missing color data. The version that ingests both panchromatic and color data can accommodate gaps in color photometry data. That attribute is important because while color indices, e.g. Johnson R and B, enhance the belief (probability) of a hidden state, in real world situations, flux data is collected sporadically in an untasked collect, and color data is limited and sometimes absent. Fluxes are measured with experimental error whose effect on the algorithm will be studied. Photometry data in the AFRL's Geo Color Photometry Catalog and Geo Observations with Latitudinal Diversity Simultaneously (GOLDS) data sets are used to simulate a wide variety of operational changes and identity cross tags. The algorithm is tested against simulated sequences of observed magnitudes, mimicking both the cadence of untasked SSN and other ground sensors, occasional operational changes and possible occurrence of cross tags of in-cluster satellites. We would like to show that the on-line algorithm can detect change; sometimes right after the first post-change data point is analyzed, for zero latency. We also want to show the unsupervised “learning” capability that allows the HMM to evolve with time without user's assistance. For example, the users are not required to “label” the true state of the data points.

Studying Titan's surface photometry in the 5 microns atmospheric window with the Cassini/VIMS instrument

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cornet, T.; Altobelli, N.; Sotin, C.; Le Mouelic, S.; Rodriguez, S.; Philippe, S.; Brown, R. H.; Barnes, J. W.; Buratti, B. J.; Baines, K. H.; Clark, R. N.; Nicholson, P. D.

2014-12-01

Due to the influence of methane gas and a thick aerosols haze in the atmosphere, Titan's surface is only visible in 7 spectral atmospheric windows centered at 0.93, 1.08, 1.27, 1.59, 2.01, 2.7-2.8 and 5 microns with the Cassini Visual and Infrared Mapping Spectrometer (VIMS). The 5 microns atmospheric window constitutes the only one being almost insensitive to the haze scattering and which presents only a reduced atmospheric absorption contribution to the signal recorded by the instrument. Despite these advantages leading to the almost direct view of the surface, the 5 microns window is also the noisiest spectral window of the entire VIMS spectrum (an effect highly dependent on the time exposure used for the observations), and it is not totally free from atmospheric contributions, enough to keep "artefacts" in mosaics of several thousands of cubes due to atmospheric and surface photometric effects amplified by the very heterogeneous viewing conditions between each Titan flyby. At first order, a lambertian surface photometry at 5 microns has been used as an initial parameter in order to estimate atmospheric opacity and surface photometry in all VIMS atmospheric windows and to determine the albedo of the surface, yet unknown, both using radiative transfer codes on single cubes or empirical techniques on global hyperspectral mosaics. Other studies suggested that Titan's surface photometry would not be uniquely lambertian but would also contain anisotropic lunar-like contributions. In the present work, we aim at constraining accurately the surface photometry of Titan and residual atmospheric absorption effects in this 5 microns window using a comprehensive study of relevant sites located at various latitudes. Those include bright and dark (dunes) terrains, 5-microns bright terrains (Hotei Regio and Tui Regio), the Huygens Landing Site and high latitudes polar lakes and seas. The VIMS 2004 to 2014 database, composed of more than 40,000 hyperspectral cubes acquired on Titan, has been decomposed into a MySQL relational database in order to perform the present study looking at both spatial and temporal (seasonal) aspects.

The Y-type Brown Dwarfs: Estimates of Mass and Age from New Astrometry, Homogenized Photometry, and Near-infrared Spectroscopy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Leggett, S. K.; Tremblin, P.; Esplin, T. L.

The survey of the mid-infrared sky by the Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer ( WISE ) led to the discovery of extremely cold, low-mass brown dwarfs, classified as Y dwarfs, which extend the T class to lower temperatures. Twenty-four Y dwarfs are known at the time of writing. Here we present improved parallaxes for four of these, determined using Spitzer images. We give new photometry for four late-type T and three Y dwarfs and new spectra of three Y dwarfs, obtained at Gemini Observatory. We also present previously unpublished photometry taken from HST , ESO, Spitzer , and WISE archives ofmore » 11 late-type T and 9 Y dwarfs. The near-infrared data are put onto the same photometric system, forming a homogeneous data set for the coolest brown dwarfs. We compare recent models to our photometric and spectroscopic data set. We confirm that nonequilibrium atmospheric chemistry is important for these objects. Nonequilibrium cloud-free models reproduce well the near-infrared spectra and mid-infrared photometry for the warmer Y dwarfs with 425 ≤ T {sub eff} (K) ≤ 450. A small amount of cloud cover may improve the model fits in the near-infrared for the Y dwarfs with 325 ≤ T {sub eff} (K) ≤ 375. Neither cloudy nor cloud-free models reproduce the near-infrared photometry for the T {sub eff} = 250 K Y dwarf W0855. We use the mid-infrared region, where most of the flux originates, to constrain our models of W0855. We find that W0855 likely has a mass of 1.5–8 Jupiter masses and an age of 0.3–6 Gyr. The Y dwarfs with measured parallaxes are within 20 pc of the Sun and have tangential velocities typical of the thin disk. The metallicities and ages we derive for the sample are generally solar-like. We estimate that the known Y dwarfs are 3 to 20 Jupiter-mass objects with ages of 0.6–8.5 Gyr.« less

Image-Subtraction Photometry of Variable Stars in the Field of the Globular Cluster NGC 6934

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaluzny, J.; Olech, A.; Stanek, K. Z.

2001-03-01

We present CCD BVI photometry of 85 variable stars from the field of the globular cluster NGC 6934. The photometry was obtained with the image subtraction package ISIS. 35 variables are new identifications: 24 RRab stars, five RRc stars, two eclipsing binaries of W UMa-type, one SX Phe star, and three variables of other types. Both detected contact binaries are foreground stars. The SX Phe variable belongs most likely to the group of cluster blue stragglers. Large number of newly found RR Lyr variables in this cluster, as well as in other clusters recently observed by us, indicates that total RR Lyr population identified up to date in nearby galactic globular clusters is significantly (>30%) incomplete. Fourier decomposition of the light curves of RR Lyr variables was used to estimate the basic properties of these stars. From the analysis of RRc variables we obtain a mean mass of M=0.63 Msolar, luminosity logL/Lsolar=1.72, effective temperature Teff=7300 and helium abundance Y=0.27. The mean values of the absolute magnitude, metallicity (on Zinn's scale) and effective temperature for RRab variables are MV=0.81, [Fe/H]=-1.53 and Teff=6450, respectively. From the B-V color at minimum light of the RRab variables we obtained the color excess to NGC 6934 equal to E(B-V)=0.09+/-0.01. Different calibrations of absolute magnitudes of RRab and RRc available in literature were used to estimate apparent distance modulus of the cluster: (m-M)V=16.09+/-0.06. We note a likely error in the zero point of the HST-based V-band photometry of NGC 6934 recently presented by Piotto et al. Among analyzed sample of RR Lyr stars we have detected a short period and low amplitude variable which possibly belongs to the group of second overtone pulsators (RRe subtype variables). The BVI photometry of all variables is available electronically via anonymous ftp. The complete set of the CCD frames is available upon request. Based on observations obtained with the 1.2 m Telescope at the F. L. Whipple Observatory of the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics.

Rabbit intraocular reactivity to endotoxin measured by slit-lamp biomicroscopy and laser flare photometry.

PubMed

Nussenblatt, Robert B; Calogero, Don; Buchen, Shelley Y; Leder, Henry A; Goodkin, Margot; Eydelman, Malvina B

2012-07-01

To evaluate the ocular reactivity of the rabbit to an intracameral injection of a dispersive ophthalmic viscosurgical device (OVD) containing various levels of bacterial endotoxin using slit-lamp biomicroscopy and laser flare photometry. Experimental, randomized, masked animal study. Thirty Dutch-Belted rabbits. The rabbits were randomized into 6 groups to receive 0.05 ml of a hydroxypropyl methylcellulose-based dispersive OVD to which had been added one of 5 different doses of bacterial endotoxin ranging from 0.02 to 1.4 endotoxin units (EUs) or a vehicle control to both eyes. The eyes were evaluated for anterior segment inflammation at baseline and 3, 6, 9, 24, 48, and 72 hours after injection using slit-lamp biomicroscopy and laser flare photometry. Corneal clarity and anterior chamber (AC) inflammation. All the corneas remained clear throughout the study. Anterior chamber cells were seen at 6, 9, and 24 hours in 60% to 100% of the eyes intracamerally injected with endotoxin-containing OVD, and the response declined rapidly after 24 hours. A dose-response effect was seen between the concentration of endotoxin and the AC cell response. The aqueous flare response in eyes injected with the 2 highest doses of endotoxin was significantly greater (P<0.05) than that of controls. The amounts of fibrin observed in the AC were random, with no apparent dose-response effect seen. The flare values as obtained by laser flare photometry were consistent with the slit-lamp biomicroscopy flare findings up to grade 3+. However, the increase in laser flare value seemed to level off in eyes with more than 3+ flare. Neither measure of flare correlated with endotoxin level. Among the parameters evaluated in this study, the AC cell response, evaluated by slit-lamp biomicroscopy and graded using a standard grading system, was found to be the most reliable indicator of the amount of endotoxin in the dispersive OVD. The use of laser flare photometry alone does not seem to be useful in detecting an ocular response to endotoxin contamination in OVDs. Copyright © 2012 American Academy of Ophthalmology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Shape models of asteroids reconstructed from WISE data and sparse photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Durech, Josef; Hanus, Josef; Ali-Lagoa, Victor

2017-10-01

By combining sparse-in-time photometry from the Lowell Observatory photometry database with WISE observations, we reconstructed convex shape models for about 700 new asteroids and for other ~850 we derived 'partial' models with unconstrained ecliptic longitude of the spin axis direction. In our approach, the WISE data were treated as reflected light, which enabled us to directly join them with sparse photometry into one dataset that was processed by the lightcurve inversion method. This simplified treatment of thermal infrared data turned out to provide correct results, because in most cases the phase offset between optical and thermal lightcurves was small and the correct sidereal rotation period was determined. The spin and shape parameters derived from only optical data and from a combination of optical and WISE data were very similar. The new models together with those already available in the Database of Asteroid Models from Inversion Techniques (DAMIT) represent a sample of ~1650 asteroids. When including also partial models, the total sample is about 2500 asteroids, which significantly increases the number of models with respect to those that have been available so far. We will show the distribution of spin axes for different size groups and also for several collisional families. These observed distributions in general agree with theoretical expectations proving that smaller asteroids are more affected by YORP/Yarkovsky evolution. In asteroid families, we see a clear bimodal distribution of prograde/retrograde rotation that correlates with the position to the right/left from the center of the family measured by the semimajor axis.

Correlation between anterior chamber characteristics and laser flare photometry immediately after femtosecond laser treatment before phacoemulsification

PubMed Central

Pahlitzsch, M; Torun, N; Pahlitzsch, M L; Klamann, M K J; Gonnermann, J; Bertelmann, E; Pahlitzsch, T

2016-01-01

Purpose To assess the anterior chamber (AC) characteristics and its correlation to laser flare photometry immediately after femtosecond laser-assisted capsulotomy and photodisruption. Patients and methods The study included 97 cataract eyes (n=97, mean age 68.6 years) undergoing femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS). Three cohorts were analysed relating to the flare photometry directly post femtosecond laser treatment (flare <100 n=28, 69.6±7 years; flare 100–249 n=47, 67.7±8 years; flare >249 photon counts per ms cohort n=22, 68.5±10 years). Flare photometry (KOWA FM-700), corneal topography (Oculus Pentacam, Germany: AC depth, volume, angle, pachymetry), axial length, pupil diameter, and endothelial cells were assessed before FLACS, immediately after femtosecond laser treatment and 1 day postoperative (LenSx Alcon, USA). Statistical data were analysed by SPSS v19.0, Inc. Results The AC depth, AC volume, AC angle, central and thinnest corneal thickness showed a significant difference between flare <100 vs flare 100–249 10 min post femtosecond laser procedure (P=0.002, P=0.023, P=0.007, P=0.003, P=0.011, respectively). The AC depth, AC volume, and AC angle were significantly larger (P=0.001, P=0.007, P=0.003, respectively) in the flare <100 vs flare >249 cohort 10 min post femtosecond laser treatment. Conclusions A flat AC, low AC volume, and a narrow AC angle were parameters associated with higher intraocular inflammation. These criteria could be used for patient selection in FLACS to reduce postoperative intraocular inflammation. PMID:27229702

Correlation between anterior chamber characteristics and laser flare photometry immediately after femtosecond laser treatment before phacoemulsification.

PubMed

Pahlitzsch, M; Torun, N; Pahlitzsch, M L; Klamann, M K J; Gonnermann, J; Bertelmann, E; Pahlitzsch, T

2016-08-01

PurposeTo assess the anterior chamber (AC) characteristics and its correlation to laser flare photometry immediately after femtosecond laser-assisted capsulotomy and photodisruption.Patients and methodsThe study included 97 cataract eyes (n=97, mean age 68.6 years) undergoing femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS). Three cohorts were analysed relating to the flare photometry directly post femtosecond laser treatment (flare <100 n=28, 69.6±7 years; flare 100-249 n=47, 67.7±8 years; flare >249 photon counts per ms cohort n=22, 68.5±10 years). Flare photometry (KOWA FM-700), corneal topography (Oculus Pentacam, Germany: AC depth, volume, angle, pachymetry), axial length, pupil diameter, and endothelial cells were assessed before FLACS, immediately after femtosecond laser treatment and 1 day postoperative (LenSx Alcon, USA). Statistical data were analysed by SPSS v19.0, Inc.ResultsThe AC depth, AC volume, AC angle, central and thinnest corneal thickness showed a significant difference between flare <100 vs flare 100-249 10 min post femtosecond laser procedure (P=0.002, P=0.023, P=0.007, P=0.003, P=0.011, respectively). The AC depth, AC volume, and AC angle were significantly larger (P=0.001, P=0.007, P=0.003, respectively) in the flare <100 vs flare >249 cohort 10 min post femtosecond laser treatment.ConclusionsA flat AC, low AC volume, and a narrow AC angle were parameters associated with higher intraocular inflammation. These criteria could be used for patient selection in FLACS to reduce postoperative intraocular inflammation.

The AAVSO Photoelectric Photometry Program in its Scientific and Socio-Historic Context

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Percy, John R.

2011-05-01

Photoelectric photometry began in the 1900s through the work of Guthnick, Stebbins, and others who constructed and used photometers based on the recently-discovered photoelectric effect. The mid 20th century saw a confluence of several areas of amateur interest: astronomy, telescope making, radio and electronics, and general interest in space. This is the time when AAVSO photoelectric photometry (PEP) began, with observers using mostly hand-built photometers on hand-built telescopes. The 1980s brought a revolution: affordable off-the-shelf solid-state photometers, and infrastructure such as the International Amateur-Professional Photoelectric Photometry (IAPPP) conferences, books, and journal. The AAVSO developed a formal PEP program in the early 1980s. Its emphasis was on long-term monitoring of pulsating red giants. It was competing, not always successfully, with programs such as active sun-like binaries (RS CVn stars) which offered "instant gratification" in the form of publicity and quick publications. Nevertheless, the AAVSO PEP program has, through careful organization, motivation, and feedback to observers, produced extensive scientific results. In this presentation, I shall describe, as examples, my own work, its scientific significance, its educational benefit to dozens of my students, and its satisfaction to the observers. To some extent, the AAVSO PEP program has been superceded by its CCD program, but there is still a useful place for ongoing PEP observations of thousands of variable stars. Reference: http://www.aavso.org/sites/default/files/newsletter/PEP/lastpepnl.pdf Acknowledgements: I thank NSERC Canada for research support, my students, and AAVSO staff and observers, especially Howard Landis.

Galaxy properties from J-PAS narrow-band photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mejía-Narváez, A.; Bruzual, G.; Magris, C. G.; Alcaniz, J. S.; Benítez, N.; Carneiro, S.; Cenarro, A. J.; Cristóbal-Hornillos, D.; Dupke, R.; Ederoclite, A.; Marín-Franch, A.; de Oliveira, C. Mendes; Moles, M.; Sodre, L.; Taylor, K.; Varela, J.; Ramió, H. Vázquez

2017-11-01

We study the consistency of the physical properties of galaxies retrieved from spectral energy distribution (SED) fitting as a function of spectral resolution and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Using a selection of physically motivated star formation histories, we set up a control sample of mock galaxy spectra representing observations of the local Universe in high-resolution spectroscopy, and in 56 narrow-band and 5 broad-band photometry. We fit the SEDs at these spectral resolutions and compute their corresponding stellar mass, the mass- and luminosity-weighted age and metallicity, and the dust extinction. We study the biases, correlations and degeneracies affecting the retrieved parameters and explore the role of the spectral resolution and the SNR in regulating these degeneracies. We find that narrow-band photometry and spectroscopy yield similar trends in the physical properties derived, the former being considerably more precise. Using a galaxy sample from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS), we compare more realistically the results obtained from high-resolution and narrow-band SEDs (synthesized from the same SDSS spectra) following the same spectral fitting procedures. We use results from the literature as a benchmark to our spectroscopic estimates and show that the prior probability distribution functions, commonly adopted in parametric methods, may introduce biases not accounted for in a Bayesian framework. We conclude that narrow-band photometry yields the same trend in the age-metallicity relation in the literature, provided it is affected by the same biases as spectroscopy, albeit the precision achieved with the latter is generally twice as large as with the narrow-band, at SNR values typical of the different kinds of data.

Photometry and spectroscopy in the open cluster Alpha Persei, 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Prosser, Charles F.

1993-01-01

Results from a combination of new spectroscopic and photometric observations in the lower main-sequence and pre-main sequence of the open cluster alpha Persei are presented. New echelle spectroscopy has provided radial and rotational velocity information for thirteen candidate members, three of which are nonmembers based on radial velocity, absence of a Li 6707A feature, and absence of H-alpha emission. A set of revised rotational velocity estimates for several slowly rotating candidates identified earlier is given, yielding rotational velocities as low as 7 km/s for two apparent cluster members. VRI photometry for several pre-main sequence members is given; the new (V,V-I(sub K)) photometry yields a more clearly defined pre-main sequence. A list of approximately 43 new faint candidate members based on the (V,V-I(sub K)) CCD photometry is presented in an effort to identify additional cluster members at very low masses. Low-dispersion spectra obtained for several of these candidates provide in some cases supporting evidence for cluster membership. The single brown dwarf candidate in this cluster is for the first time placed in a color-magnitude diagram with other cluster members, providing a better means for establishing its true status. Stars from among the list of new photometric candidates may provide the means for establishing a sequence of cluster members down to very faint magnitudes (V approximately 21) and consequently very low masses. New coordinate determinations for previous candidate members and finding charts for the new photometric candidates are provided in appendices.

Testing theoretical models of subdwarf B stars using multicolor photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reed, Mike; Baran, Andrzej; Ostensen, Roy; O'Toole, Simon

2012-08-01

Pulsating stars allow a direct investigation of their structure and evolutionary history from the evaluation of pulsation modes. However, the observed pulsation frequencies must first be identified with spherical harmonics (modes). For subdwarfs B (sdB) stars, such identifications using white light photometry currently have significant limitations. We intend to use multicolor photometry to identify pulsation modes and constrain structure models. We propose to observe the pulsating sdB star PG0154+182 (BI Ari) with our multicolor instrument GT Cam. Our observations will be compared with perturbative atmospheric models (BRUCE/KYLIE) to identify the pulsation modes. This is part of our NSF grant to obtain seismic tools to test structure and evolution models; constraining stellar parameters including total mass, envelope mass, internal composition discontinuities and internal rotation. During winter/spring 2012, we were allocated three runs on the 2.1 m to collect multicolor data on other promising pulsating subdwarf B stars as part of this work. Those runs were very successful, prompting our continued proposals. In addition, we will obtain 3-color data using MAIA on the Mercator Telescope (using guaranteed institutional time).

Testing Ultracool Models with Precise Luminosities and Masses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dupuy, Trent; Cushing, Michael; Liu, Michael; Burningham, Ben; Leggett, Sandy; Albert, Loic; Delorme, Philippe

2011-05-01

After years of patient orbital monitoring, there is a growing sample of brown dwarfs with well-determined dynamical masses, representing the gold standard for testing substellar models. A key element of our model tests to date has been the use of integrated-light photometry to provide accurate total luminosity measurements for these binaries. However, some of the ultracool binaries with the most promising orbit motion for yielding dynamical in the masses lack the mid-infrared photometry needed to constrain their SEDs. This is especially crucial for the latest type binaries (spectral types >T5) that will probe the coldest temperature regimes previously untested with dynamical masses. We propose to use IRAC to obtain the needed mid-infrared photometry for a sample of binaries that are part of our ongoing orbital monitoring program with Keck laser guide star adaptive optics. The observational effort needed to characterize these binaries' luminosities using Spitzer is much less daunting in than the years of orbital monitoring needed to measure precise dynamical masses, but it is equally vital for robust tests of theory.

Into the Darkness: Interstellar Extinction Near the Cepheus OB3 Molecular Cloud

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fitzpatrick, Edward L.; Jacklin, S.; Massa, D.

2014-01-01

We present the results of a followup investigation to a study performed by Massa and Savage (1984, ApJ, 279, 310) of the properties of UV interstellar extinction in the region of the Cepheus OB3 molecular cloud. That study was performed using UV photometry and spectro-photometry from the ANS and IUE satellites. We have extended this study into the IR, utilizing the uniform database of IR photometry available from the 2MASS project. This is a part of a larger program whose goal is to study the properties of extinction in localized regions, where we hope to find clues to dust grain growth and destruction processes through spatial correlations of extinction with distinct environmental properties. Similarly to Massa and Savage’s UV results, we find that the IR extinction properties on the Cepheus OB3 region vary systematically with the apparent proximity of the target stars to the molecular cloud. We also find that the UV extinction and the IR extinction are crudely correlated. The methodology leading to these results and their implications are discussed.

Globular and Open Clusters Observed by SDSS/SEGUE: the Giant Stars

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Morrison, Heather L.; Ma, Zhibo; Clem, James L.

We present griz observations for the clusters M92, M13 and NGC 6791 and gr photometry for M71, Be 29 and NGC 7789. In addition we present new membership identifications for all these clusters, which have been observed spectroscopically as calibrators for the SDSS/SEGUE survey; this paper focuses in particular on the red giant branch stars in the clusters. In a number of cases, these giants were too bright to be observed in the normal SDSS survey operations, and we describe the procedure used to obtain spectra for these stars. For M71, also present a new variable reddening map and amore » new fiducial for the gr giant branch. For NGC 7789, we derived a transformation from Teff to g-r for giants of near solar abundance, using IRFM Teff measures of stars with good ugriz and 2MASS photometry and SEGUE spectra. The result of our analysis is a robust list of known cluster members with correctly dereddened and (if needed) transformed gr photometry for crucial calibration efforts for SDSS and SEGUE.« less

Globular and Open Clusters Observed by SDSS/SEGUE: The Giant Stars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Morrison, Heather L.; Ma, Zhibo; Clem, James L.; An, Deokkeun; Connor, Thomas; Schechtman-Rook, Andrew; Casagrande, Luca; Rockosi, Constance; Yanny, Brian; Harding, Paul; Beers, Timothy C.; Johnson, Jennifer A.; Schneider, Donald P.

2016-01-01

We present griz observations for the clusters M92, M13 and NGC 6791 and gr photometry for M71, Be 29 and NGC 7789. In addition we present new membership identifications for all these clusters, which have been observed spectroscopically as calibrators for the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS)/SEGUE survey; this paper focuses in particular on the red giant branch stars in the clusters. In a number of cases, these giants were too bright to be observed in the normal SDSS survey operations, and we describe the procedure used to obtain spectra for these stars. For M71, we also present a new variable reddening map and a new fiducial for the gr giant branch. For NGC 7789, we derived a transformation from Teff to g-r for giants of near solar abundance, using IRFM Teff measures of stars with good ugriz and 2MASS photometry and SEGUE spectra. The result of our analysis is a robust list of known cluster members with correctly dereddened and (if needed) transformed gr photometry for crucial calibration efforts for SDSS and SEGUE.

An optical and X-ray survey of s-type Markarian galaxies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hutter, D. J.; Mufson, S. L.

1981-01-01

The results of a study of 23 compact, lineless Markarian galaxies using broadband optical photometry and X-ray satellite observations are reported. The photometry shows that the sample can be broken into four groups. In one group (Mrk 180, 421, and 501) are composite objects in which a BL Lacertae object is embedded in an elliptical galaxy. For this group, the results of multiepoch X-ray observations using the HEAO-1 and -2 satellites are presented. In addition, photometry is used to decompose the optical emission into nonthermal and galactic components. In the second group are objects showing a small ultraviolet excess relative to normal galaxies. The X-ray survey indicates that the X-ray luminosity of objects in group 2 is much lower than those in group 1. This suggests that there is an intrinsic difference between objects in groups 1 and 2. The third and fourth groups are objects whose colors are indistinguishable from those of normal field galaxies and those of galactic stars, respectively. No X-ray emission was detected from objects in either of these groups.

Multiwavelength Properties of Faint Submillimeter Galaxies with Archival ALMA Data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Patil, Pallavi; Lacy, Mark; Nyland, Kristina

2018-01-01

Detection of Faint submillimeter galaxies was made possible by large improvements in the spatial resolution and sensitivity by interferometric observations. These galaxies are a dominant contributor to the extragalactic background light at millimeter wavelengths and are likely to play a significant role in galaxy evolution. We present a catalog of 28 such galaxies with S(1.1 mm) < 1.0 mJy that have 13-band optical/near IR photometry (Spitzer DeepDrill, VIDEO, CFHTLS, and HSC) and serendipitous detections in ALMA band 6. ALMA 1.1 mm continuum observations were cross-matched with the K-band VIDEO catalog in the XMM-LSS field to identify multiwavelength counterparts. A forced Photometry approach based on the Tractor image modeling code is used to construct the catalog. The median photometric redshift of the sample is z ~ 1.96 along with two high redshift candidates at z ~ 5. We have provided population statistics using multiband photometry and estimated galaxy properties such as dust and gas masses. We aim to provide a detailed characterization of this population to ultimately devise better selection techniques for future wide-area sky surveys.

GAS in Protoplanetary Systems (GASPS). I. First results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mathews, G. S.; Dent, W. R. F.; Williams, J. P.; Howard, C. D.; Meeus, G.; Riaz, B.; Roberge, A.; Sandell, G.; Vandenbussche, B.; Duchêne, G.; Kamp, I.; Ménard, F.; Montesinos, B.; Pinte, C.; Thi, W. F.; Woitke, P.; Alacid, J. M.; Andrews, S. M.; Ardila, D. R.; Aresu, G.; Augereau, J. C.; Barrado, D.; Brittain, S.; Ciardi, D. R.; Danchi, W.; Eiroa, C.; Fedele, D.; Grady, C. A.; de Gregorio-Monsalvo, I.; Heras, A.; Huelamo, N.; Krivov, A.; Lebreton, J.; Liseau, R.; Martin-Zaidi, C.; Mendigutía, I.; Mora, A.; Morales-Calderon, M.; Nomura, H.; Pantin, E.; Pascucci, I.; Phillips, N.; Podio, L.; Poelman, D. R.; Ramsay, S.; Rice, K.; Riviere-Marichalar, P.; Solano, E.; Tilling, I.; Walker, H.; White, G. J.; Wright, G.

2010-07-01

Context. Circumstellar discs are ubiquitous around young stars, but rapidly dissipate their gas and dust on timescales of a few Myr. The Herschel Space Observatory allows for the study of the warm disc atmosphere, using far-infrared spectroscopy to measure gas content and excitation conditions, and far-IR photometry to constrain the dust distribution. Aims: We aim to detect and characterize the gas content of circumstellar discs in four targets as part of the Herschel science demonstration phase. Methods: We carried out sensitive medium resolution spectroscopy and high sensitivity photometry at λ ~ 60-190 μm using the Photodetector Array Camera and Spectrometer instrument on the Herschel Space Observatory. Results: We detect [OI] 63 μm emission from the young stars HD 169142, TW Hydrae, and RECX 15, but not HD 181327. No other lines, including [CII] 158 and [OI] 145, are significantly detected. All four stars are detected in photometry at 70 and 160 μm. Extensive models are presented in associated papers. Herschel is an ESA space observatory with science instruments provided by European-led Principal Investigator consortia and with important participation from NASA.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Stars associated to Eagle Nebula (M16=NGC6611) (Guarcello+ 2010)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guarcello, M. G.; Micela, G.; Peres, G.; Prisinzano, L.; Sciortino, S.

2010-08-01

This catalog contains coordinates and both optical and infrared photometry, plus usefull tags, of the candidate stars associated to the Eagle Nebula (M16), bost disk-less and disk-bearing, selected in Guarcello et al. 2010: "Chronology of star formation and disks evolution in the Eagle Nebula". The optical photometry in BVI bands comes from observations with WFI@ESO (Guarcello et al. 2007, Cat. J/A+A/462/245); JHK photometry have been obtained from 2MASS/PSC (Bonatto et al. 2006A&A...445..567B, Guarcello et al. 2007, Cat. J/A+A/462/245) and UKIDSS/GPS catalogs (Guarcello et al., 2010, in prep.) ; IRAC data are from GLIMPSE public survey (Indebetouw 2007ApJ...666..321I, Guarcello et al., 2009, Cat. J/A+A/496/453); X-ray data from three observations with Chandra/ACIS-I (Linsky et al., 2007, Cat. J/ApJ/654/347, Guarcello et al., 2007, J/A+A/462/245, Guarcello et al. 2010, in prep.). (1 data file).

Updated 34-band Photometry for the SINGS/KINGFISH Samples of Nearby Galaxies

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Dale, D. A.; Turner, J. A.; Cook, D. O.

2017-03-01

We present an update to the ultraviolet-to-radio database of global broadband photometry for the 79 nearby galaxies that comprise the union of the KINGFISH (Key Insights on Nearby Galaxies: A Far-Infrared Survey with Herschel ) and SINGS ( Spitzer Infrared Nearby Galaxies Survey) samples. The 34-band data set presented here includes contributions from observational work carried out with a variety of facilities including GALEX , SDSS, Pan-STARRS1, NOAO , 2MASS, Wide-Field Infrared Survey Explorer , Spitzer , Herschel , Planck , JCMT , and the VLA. Improvements of note include recalibrations of previously published SINGS BVR {sub C} I {submore » C} and KINGFISH far-infrared/submillimeter photometry. Similar to previous results in the literature, an excess of submillimeter emission above model predictions is seen primarily for low-metallicity dwarf or irregular galaxies. This 33-band photometric data set for the combined KINGFISH+SINGS sample serves as an important multiwavelength reference for the variety of galaxies observed at low redshift. A thorough analysis of the observed spectral energy distributions is carried out in a companion paper.« less

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Subdwarf A stars vs ELM WDs radial velocities (Brown+, 2017)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brown, W. R.; Kilic, M.; Gianninas, A.

2017-11-01

Our sample is comprised of 11 subdwarf A-type (sdA) stars suspected of being eclipsing binaries (S. O. Kepler 2015, private communication) and 11 previously unpublished extremely low mass (ELM) white dwarf (WD) candidates that have sdA-like temperatures summarized in Table 1. We obtain time-series spectroscopy for all 22 objects and time-series optical photometry for 21 objects. We also obtain JHK infrared photometry for 6 objects. We obtain time-series spectroscopy for 20 of the 22 objects with the 6.5m MMT telescope. We obtain spectra for the two brightest objects with the 1.5m Tillinghast telescope at Fred Lawrence Whipple Observatory. We obtain additional spectra for six objects with the 4m Mayall telescope at Kitt Peak National Observatory. The spectra were mostly acquired in observing runs between 2014 December and 2016 December. We search the Catalina Surveys Data Release 2 (Drake+ 2009, J/ApJ/696/870) and find time-series V-band photometry for 21 of the 22 objects. Six objects show significant eclipses. (3 data files).

Globular and Open Clusters Observed by SDSS/SEGUE: the Giant Stars

DOE PAGES

Morrison, Heather L.; Ma, Zhibo; Clem, James L.; ...

2015-12-18

We present griz observations for the clusters M92, M13 and NGC 6791 and gr photometry for M71, Be 29 and NGC 7789. In addition we present new membership identifications for all these clusters, which have been observed spectroscopically as calibrators for the SDSS/SEGUE survey; this paper focuses in particular on the red giant branch stars in the clusters. In a number of cases, these giants were too bright to be observed in the normal SDSS survey operations, and we describe the procedure used to obtain spectra for these stars. For M71, also present a new variable reddening map and amore » new fiducial for the gr giant branch. For NGC 7789, we derived a transformation from Teff to g-r for giants of near solar abundance, using IRFM Teff measures of stars with good ugriz and 2MASS photometry and SEGUE spectra. The result of our analysis is a robust list of known cluster members with correctly dereddened and (if needed) transformed gr photometry for crucial calibration efforts for SDSS and SEGUE.« less

V1327 Aquilae: A New RR Lyrae variable with an extremely high radial velocity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Galeev, A. I.; Bikmaev, I. F.; Borisov, N. V.; Zhuchkov, R. Ya.; Shimanskii, V. V.; Khabibullina, M. L.; Sakhibullin, N. A.

2008-07-01

We have carried out photometry and spectroscopy of the star V1327 Aql ( R = 16 m ) as part of our program of observations of poorly studied cataclysmic variables using the 1.5-m optical Russian—Turkish telescope (RTT-150, Turkey) and the 6-m telescope of the Special Astrophysical Observatory of the Russian Academy of Sciences. After analyzing our photometry, we have re-classified the variable as an RR Lyrae star. Our BV R photometry during 10 nights reveals brightness variations with the period 12h49m, with the B, V, and R amplitudes being 1.36 m , 1.13 m , and 1.11 m , respectively. We derived the first estimates of the star’s atmospheric parameters from our moderate-resolution spectra: T eff = 6280 K, log g = 3.3, [M/H] = -1.05. The extremely high radial velocity of the star’s motion ( V R = -470 km/s) and the star’s large distances to the Galactic center (13.1 kpc) and disk (4.2 kpc) testify to a probable extragalactic origin of this object.

Time-Resolved CubeSat Photometry with a Low Cost Electro-Optics System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gasdia, F.; Barjatya, A.; Bilardi, S.

2016-09-01

Once the orbits of small debris or CubeSats are determined, optical rate-track follow-up observations can provide information for characterization or identification of these objects. Using the Celestron 11" RASA telescope and an inexpensive CMOS machine vision camera, we have obtained time-series photometry from dozens of passes of small satellites and CubeSats over sites in Florida and Massachusetts. The fast readout time of the CMOS detector allows temporally resolved sampling of glints from small wire antennae and structural facets of rapidly tumbling objects. Because the shape of most CubeSats is known, these light curves can be used in a mission support function for small satellite operators to diagnose or verify the proper functioning of an attitude control system or deployed antenna or instrument. We call this telescope system and the accompanying analysis tools OSCOM for Optical tracking and Spectral characterization of CubeSats for Operational Missions. We introduce the capability of OSCOM for space object characterization, and present photometric observations demonstrating the potential of high frame rate small satellite photometry.

Far ultraviolet wide field imaging and photometry - Spartan-202 Mark II Far Ultraviolet Camera

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carruthers, George R.; Heckathorn, Harry M.; Opal, Chet B.; Witt, Adolf N.; Henize, Karl G.

1988-01-01

The U.S. Naval Research Laboratory' Mark II Far Ultraviolet Camera, which is expected to be a primary scientific instrument aboard the Spartan-202 Space Shuttle mission, is described. This camera is intended to obtain FUV wide-field imagery of stars and extended celestial objects, including diffuse nebulae and nearby galaxies. The observations will support the HST by providing FUV photometry of calibration objects. The Mark II camera is an electrographic Schmidt camera with an aperture of 15 cm, a focal length of 30.5 cm, and sensitivity in the 1230-1600 A wavelength range.

SOFIA FORCAST Far-IR Photometry of Comet ISON and Constraints on the Coma Grain Size Distribution

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wooden, D. H.; DeBuizer, J. M.; Kelley, M. S.; Woodward, C. E.; Harker, D. E.; Reach, W. T.; Sitko, M. L.; Russell, R. W.; Gehrz, R. D.; dePater, Imke;

OV Bootis: Forty Nights Of World-Wide Photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Patterson, Joseph; de Miguel, Enrique; Barret, Douglas; Brincat, Stephen; Boardman, James, Jr.; Buczynski, Denis; Campbell, Tut; Cejudo, David; Cook, Lew; Cook, Michael J.; Collins, Donald; Cooney, Walt; Dubois, Franky; Dvorak, Shawn; Halpern, Jules P.; Kroes, Anthony J.; Lemay, Damien; Licchelli, Domenico; Mankel, Dylan; Marshall, Matt; Novak, Rudolf; Oksanen, Arto; Roberts, George; Seargeant, Jim; Sears, Huei; Silcox, Austin; Slauson, Douglas; Stone, Geoff; Thorstensen, J. R.; Ulowetz, Joe; Vanmunster, Tonny; Wallgren, John; Wood, Matt

2017-06-01

Among the 1000 known cataclysmic variables, only one appears to belong to the "Galactic halo" - the Population II stars. We report round-the-world photometry of this star (OV Boo) during March-April 2017, when it staged its first certified dwarf-nova outburst. The star is remarkable for its short binary period (66 minutes), high proper motion, metal-poor composition, substellar secondary, sharp white-dwarf eclipses, and nonradial pulsations. Something for everybody...... and it even had the good manners to erupt in northern springtime, when it transits near local midnight. Move over, SS Cyg and WZ Sge; there's a new celebrity in town!

Characterization of the Praesepe Star Cluster by Photometry and Proper Motions With 2MASS, PPMXL, and Pan-STARRS

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-03-20

reserved. Printed in the U.S.A. CHARACTERIZATION OF THE PRAESEPE STAR CLUSTER BY PHOTOMETRY AND PROPER MOTIONS WITH 2MASS , PPMXL, AND Pan-STARRS P. F. Wang1... 2MASS ) and the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) data, covering a sky area of 100 deg2, Adams et al. (2002) extended the lower main sequence to 0.1M, and...incompleteness is caused by the detection limits of USNO-B1 and 2MASS . Recently, Khalaj & Baumgardt (2013) used SDSS and PPMXL data to characterize

A Photometric Analysis of ZZ Ceti Stars: A Parameter-Free Temperature Indicator?

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-01-01

2MASS JHK measurements. 16th European White Dwarfs Workshop IOP Publishing Journal of Physics: Conference Series 172 (2009) 012062 doi:10.1088/1742-6596...172/1/012062 3 Table 1. Optical and infrared photometry of ZZ Ceti stars. UFTI 2MASS Name V R I J H K J H K Ross 548 14.16 14.37 14.36 14.40 14.38...Since the beginning of our survey, 2MASS photometry has also become available for 23 objects in our sample, and this data is reported in Table 1 and

Ultraviolet photometry from the Orbiting Astronomical Observatory. XXI - Absolute energy distribution of stars in the ultraviolet

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bless, R. C.; Code, A. D.; Fairchild, E. T.

1976-01-01

The absolute energy distribution in the ultraviolet is given for the stars alpha Vir, eta UMa, and alpha Leo. The calibration is based on absolute heterochromatic photometry between 2920 and 1370 A carried out with an Aerobee sounding rocket. The fundamental radiation standard is the synchrotron radiation from 240-MeV electrons in a certain synchrotron storage ring. On the basis of the sounding-rocket calibration, the preliminary OAO-2 spectrometer calibration has been revised; the fluxes for the three program stars are tabulated in energy per second per square centimeter per unit wavelength interval.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Optical/NIR photometry of OGLE-2012-SN-006 (Pastorello+, 2015)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pastorello, A.; Wyrzykowski, L.; Valenti, S.; Prieto, J. L.; Kozlowski, S.; Udalski, A.; Elias-Rosa, N.; Morales-Garoffolo, A.; Anderson, J. P.; Benetti, S.; Bersten, M.; Botticella, M. T.; Cappellaro, E.; Fasano, G.; Fraser, M.; Gal-Yam, A.; Gillone, M.; Graham, M. L.; Greiner, J.; Hachinger, S.; Howell, D. A.; Inserra, C.; Parrent, J.; Rau, A.; Schulze, S.; Smartt, S. J.; Smith, K. W.; Turatto, M.; Yaron, O.; Young, D. R.; Kubiak, M.; Szymanski, M. K.; Pietrzynski, G.; Soszynski, I.; Ulaczyk, K.; Poleski, R.; Pietrukowicz, P.; Skowron, J.; Mroz, P.

2017-11-01

Photometric measurements in the optical and NIR bands were obtained through the PSF-fitting technique. A template PSF was built using stars in the SN field. With this PSF model along with a low-order polynomial surface, we finally performed a fit to the SN and the underlying background. OGLE-IV photometry was obtained using the difference imaging analysis, which is a template subtraction method adapted to the OGLE data and detailed in Wyrzykowski et al. 2014, J/AcA/64/197 (see also Wozniak 2000, J/AcA/50/421). (2 data files).

Photometry of resolved galaxies. IV - Holmberg I and Holmberg II

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hoessel, J. G.; Danielson, G. E.

1984-01-01

Colors and magnitudes are presented for 279 resolved stars in the Holmberg I dwarf galaxy and 468 resolved stars in Holmberg II. Both systems are Magellanic type dwarf members of the M81-NGC 2403 Group, which lies at approximately 3 Mpc from the Local Group. The photometry was done in the GRI passbands using CCD detectors. Color-magnitude diagrams and luminosity functions are constructed; these are compared with results for several Local Group galaxies and with theoretical work. Holmberg I is found to have a low present star formation rate, while Holmberg II is very active at present.

LMC O Supergiant Mass Loss Rates Determined from P V, S V and IR Excesses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Massa, Derck; Prinja, R.; Fullerton, A.; Lennon, D.

2012-05-01

We use HST/STIS and FUSE spectra and Spitzer/IRAC photometry to obtain independent mass loss rates for 7 LMC O supergiants. The mass loss rates are derived from the P Cygni profiles of the P V 1118, 1128 resonance doublet, the S V 1502 and N IV 1718 excited state lines, and the IR excesses of a combination of ground based and Spitzer photometry. The different mass loss rates are compared to each other and to theoretical expectations. We discuss the causes for the differences between the various determinations.

Charles Nordmann and Multicolour Stellar Photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lequeux, James

2010-11-01

Charles Nordmann (1881-1940), an astronomer at the Paris Observatory, was the first to determine the effective temperature of stars with his photometre heterochrome, simultaneously and independently of Rosenberg, Wilsing and Scheiner in Germany. He is also the remote precursor of the multicolour photometry of Johnson and Morgan. In spite of the quality of his temperature determinations, which were as good or better than those made by spectrophotometry, he rapidly fell into oblivion because of some failures in his scientific work. We examine his activity in the international context of the time, and explain why he has been forgotten, to be rediscovered only recently.

Finding binaries from phase modulation of pulsating stars with Kepler

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shibahashi, Hiromoto; Murphy, Simon; Bedding, Tim

2017-09-01

Binary orbital motion causes a periodic variation in the path length travelled by light emitted from a star towards us. Hence, if the star is pulsating, the observed phase of the pulsation varies over the orbit. Conversely, once we have observed such phase variation, we can extract information about the binary orbit from photometry alone. Continuous and precise space-based photometry has made it possible to measure these light travel time effects on the pulsating stars in binary systems. This opens up a new way of finding unseen brown dwarfs, planets, or massive compact stellar remnants: neutron stars and black holes.

Research amateur astronomy; Proceedings of the Symposium, La Paz, Mexico, July 7-12, 1991

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Edberg, Stephen J. (Editor)

1992-01-01

The present volume on amateur astronomy deals with solar observations; planet, asteroid, and comet studies; photometry; education and communication; and history and sociology. Particular attention is given to the observation of the 1984 annular eclipse in Mexico, amateur solar astronomy in Germany, the Ashen Light of Venus, dust clouds on Mars in 1990, and the importance of comets Encke and Machholz. Also discussed are a UBVRI and occultation photometry acquisition and reduction software package for PC-based observatories, a Skyweek weekly newsletter on astronomy and spaceflight, and the Hubble Space Telescope and the Goddard High Resolution Spectrograph.

New BVR Photometry of BL Camelopardalis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Joner, Michael D.

2015-01-01

New BVR photometry of the SX Phe star BL Camelopardalis has been secured with the 0.9 m reflector at the BYU West Mountain Observatory. The new data have been used to determine times of maximum light, standardize light curves in each of the three filters, and examine the frequencies that are currently detectable in the light curves from a single location.We acknowledge the Brigham Young University College of Physical and Mathematical Sciences as well as the Department of Physics and Astronomy for continued support of this and other research efforts currently being done at the West Mountain Observatory.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: OGLE II. VI photometry of Galactic Bulge (Udalski+, 2002)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Udalski, A.; Szymanski, M.; Kubiak, M.; Pietrzynski, G.; Soszynski, I.; Wozniak, P.; Zebrun, K.; Szewczyk, O.; Wyrzykowski, L.

2003-09-01

We present the VI photometric maps of the Galactic bulge. They contain VI photometry and astrometry of about 30 million stars from 49 fields of 0.225 square degree each in the Galactic center region. The data were collected during the second phase of the OGLE microlensing project. We discuss the accuracy of data and present color-magnitude diagrams of selected fields observed by OGLE in the Galactic bulge. The VI maps of the Galactic bulge are accessible electronically for the astronomical community from the OGLE Internet archive (2 data files).

High-resolution imaging and crowded-field photometry of the stellar populations in the cores of the Globular Clusters M15 and M4

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Butler, R. F.

1999-02-01

This thesis presents work performed at the Department of Physics, University College Galway from 1992 to 1997. It is concerned with ground- and space-based high-resolution optical imaging of globular cluster cores, and the subsequent application of image-restoration and crowded-field photometry techniques; thus we may gain an improved understanding of the nature of their stellar populations, by either monitoring their temporal behaviour over moderate periods for the first time, or by obtaining a more precise "static" picture than was hitherto possible. These goals can be achieved by the development of innovative instrumentation and data analysis techniques. The particularly unique aspect of this work is that it deals with the first application of two-dimensional photon-counting detectors (2D-PCDs) and post-exposure image sharpening (PEIS) for crowded-field photometry. The thesis starts by introducing some basic concepts and characteristics of globular clusters and the diverse stellar species which they contain, in particular those predicted to have formed as a result of dynamical processes in the cluster cores, and those which exhibit variability in emission over time. It then reviews the fields of high-resolution imaging through the turbulent atmosphere & image deconvolution, optical stellar photometry, and Hubble Space Telescope observing and data reduction, each concluded with a description of the systems used in the work reported here (for the HST chapter this involves photometry of WFPC2 (Wide Field & Planetary Camera 2) observations of M15 (NGC 7078) released into the archives in 1995). The core of the thesis begins with a review of the observations to date of the objects with which this thesis is chiefly concerned, M15 and M4 (NGC 6121). In the following sections we describe the observations of these clusters which were made using the TRIFFID camera between 1992 and 1995, the image sharpening and calibration steps performed, and the photometric techniques devised. The photometry results are presented, and their quality and analysis are discussed in depth. Finally, we conclude with a reappraisal of crowded-field photometry using photon-counting detectors and post-exposure image sharpening, and some comment on what the future holds for such techniques and for globular cluster science dependent on improved observations. The key results of our study of M15 were that we obtained 2D-PCD photometry of its core in B over two seasons, using HST images to determine the initial parameters of the starlist. 17 candidate variables detected with the HST were confirmed and monitored over longer periods. We show that most of these are RR Lyrae stars, and that one is a short-period (1.3 day) Type II Cepheid (the third to be discovered in M15). Our photometric study also produced evidence of a similar number of new variables. These also appear to be RR Lyrae stars, except for a possible eclipsing system. This study significantly increases the number of known RR Lyrae stars in M15, which will benefit longer-term studies, and it resolves the nature of some of the supra-horizontal branch stars at it centre. The optical variability period of AC211, the low-mass X-ray binary in M15, was found to be still uncertain; the shorter (~8.5 hour) period was more significant than the longer (~17.1 hour) period, in agreement with the most widely quoted period of 8.5 hours, while the less structured and less physically realistic phase curve for the data folded on a 17.1 hour period also leads to the conclusion that the ~8.5 hour period is more plausible. In addition, we saw no evidence on any of 6 nights (3 consecutive nights in each of June 1992 and July 1994) that there was any unmodulated state of intermediate brightness. The key results of our study of M4 were that we obtained 2D-PCD photometry in B and V of the proposed optical counterpart of the second companion of PSR B1620-26, yielding a magnitude V=21.30 ± 0.08 and a colour B-V=1.32 ± 0.20. The colour index had not been successfully determined previously. These values locate the counterpart on the main sequence of the cluster colour-magnitude diagram, and lead to a mass determination which is consistent with a 0.48 Msolar cluster main sequence star. This is similar to an earlier mass determination by other workers, which had been based on a miscalibration of their seeing-limited photometry. From Monte Carlo simulations, we also found that there was an increased probability of 0.09 - 0.17 (depending on the measured stellar density) that a star would be located at the counterpart's distance from the nominal pulsar position. It is thus more likely to be a positional coincidence of an unassociated cluster member than hitherto estimated. In addition, several blue straggler star candidates were observed, one of them possibly variable.

Direct measurement and calibration of the Kepler CCD Pixel Response Function for improved photometry and astrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ninkov, Zoran

Stellar images taken with telescopes and detectors in space are usually undersampled, and to correct for this, an accurate pixel response function is required. The standard approach for HST and KEPLER has been to measure the telescope PSF combined ("convolved") with the actual pixel response function, super-sampled by taking into account dithered or offset observed images of many stars (Lauer [1999]). This combined response function has been called the "PRF" (Bryson et al. [2011]). However, using such results has not allowed astrometry from KEPLER to reach its full potential (Monet et al. [2010], [2014]). Given the precision of KEPLER photometry, it should be feasible to use a pre-determined detector pixel response function (PRF) and an optical point spread function (PSF) as separable quantities to more accurately correct photometry and astrometry for undersampling. Wavelength (i.e. stellar color) and instrumental temperature should be affecting each of these differently. Discussion of the PRF in the "KEPLER Instrument Handbook" is limited to an ad-hoc extension of earlier measurements on a quite different CCD. It is known that the KEPLER PSF typically has a sharp spike in the middle, and the main bulk of the PSF is still small enough to be undersampled, so that any substructure in the pixel may interact significantly with the optical PSF. Both the PSF and PRF are probably asymmetric. We propose to measure the PRF for an example of the CCD sensors used on KEPLER at sufficient sampling resolution to allow significant improvement of KEPLER photometry and astrometry, in particular allowing PSF fitting techniques to be used on the data archive.

Quasar probabilities and redshifts from WISE mid-IR through GALEX UV photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

DiPompeo, M. A.; Bovy, J.; Myers, A. D.; Lang, D.

2015-09-01

Extreme deconvolution (XD) of broad-band photometric data can both separate stars from quasars and generate probability density functions for quasar redshifts, while incorporating flux uncertainties and missing data. Mid-infrared photometric colours are now widely used to identify hot dust intrinsic to quasars, and the release of all-sky WISE data has led to a dramatic increase in the number of IR-selected quasars. Using forced photometry on public WISE data at the locations of Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) point sources, we incorporate this all-sky data into the training of the XDQSOz models originally developed to select quasars from optical photometry. The combination of WISE and SDSS information is far more powerful than SDSS alone, particularly at z > 2. The use of SDSS+WISE photometry is comparable to the use of SDSS+ultraviolet+near-IR data. We release a new public catalogue of 5537 436 (total; 3874 639 weighted by probability) potential quasars with probability PQSO > 0.2. The catalogue includes redshift probabilities for all objects. We also release an updated version of the publicly available set of codes to calculate quasar and redshift probabilities for various combinations of data. Finally, we demonstrate that this method of selecting quasars using WISE data is both more complete and efficient than simple WISE colour-cuts, especially at high redshift. Our fits verify that above z ˜ 3 WISE colours become bluer than the standard cuts applied to select quasars. Currently, the analysis is limited to quasars with optical counterparts, and thus cannot be used to find highly obscured quasars that WISE colour-cuts identify in significant numbers.

Characterizing K2 Exoplanets with NIR Transit Photometry from the 3.5m WIYN Telescope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Colon, Knicole D.; Barclay, Thomas; Thompson, Susan E.; Coughlin, Jeffrey; Barentsen, Geert; Quintana, Elisa V.

2017-01-01

The NASA K2 mission has discovered over 400 transiting exoplanets as of October 2016 and continues to produce new discoveries on a regular basis. Expected to launch in late 2017, the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) will continue the era of exoplanet discovery by performing an all-sky search for transiting exoplanets. Given the ever increasing number of known exoplanets, it is critical that we optimize follow-up observations now in order to characterize the many interesting systems discovered by these missions. For example, K2 is finding (and TESS will find even more) small, super-Earth-size planets around cool, nearby stars. I will present results from our program for near-infrared (NIR) transit photometry of K2 exoplanet candidates conducted using the 3.5m WIYN telescope at Kitt Peak National Observatory. NIR transit photometry with the high spatial resolution WHIRC imager installed on the WIYN telescope allows us to confirm the transit host, to verify that the transit is achromatic, and to constrain the planet radius by minimizing effects of stellar limb darkening. Furthermore, the high-precision and high-cadence photometry from WIYN+WHIRC allows us to track and constrain the transit ephemeris, which is crucial for future follow-up efforts with other facilities like the upcoming James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). Ultimately, this program will vet K2 exoplanet candidates and identify prime targets for detailed characterization with JWST. This program complements K2 follow-up being done with the Spitzer Space Telescope and demonstrates the capabilities of a ground-based facility that can be used to characterize small planets from K2 and TESS for years to come.This work was supported by the NASA-NSF Exoplanet Observational Research (NN-EXPLORE) program.

An Application of Multi-band Forced Photometry to One Square Degree of SERVS: Accurate Photometric Redshifts and Implications for Future Science

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nyland, Kristina; Lacy, Mark; Sajina, Anna; Pforr, Janine; Farrah, Duncan; Wilson, Gillian; Surace, Jason; Häußler, Boris; Vaccari, Mattia; Jarvis, Matt

2017-05-01

We apply The Tractor image modeling code to improve upon existing multi-band photometry for the Spitzer Extragalactic Representative Volume Survey (SERVS). SERVS consists of post-cryogenic Spitzer observations at 3.6 and 4.5 μm over five well-studied deep fields spanning 18 deg2. In concert with data from ground-based near-infrared (NIR) and optical surveys, SERVS aims to provide a census of the properties of massive galaxies out to z ≈ 5. To accomplish this, we are using The Tractor to perform “forced photometry.” This technique employs prior measurements of source positions and surface brightness profiles from a high-resolution fiducial band from the VISTA Deep Extragalactic Observations survey to model and fit the fluxes at lower-resolution bands. We discuss our implementation of The Tractor over a square-degree test region within the XMM Large Scale Structure field with deep imaging in 12 NIR/optical bands. Our new multi-band source catalogs offer a number of advantages over traditional position-matched catalogs, including (1) consistent source cross-identification between bands, (2) de-blending of sources that are clearly resolved in the fiducial band but blended in the lower resolution SERVS data, (3) a higher source detection fraction in each band, (4) a larger number of candidate galaxies in the redshift range 5 < z < 6, and (5) a statistically significant improvement in the photometric redshift accuracy as evidenced by the significant decrease in the fraction of outliers compared to spectroscopic redshifts. Thus, forced photometry using The Tractor offers a means of improving the accuracy of multi-band extragalactic surveys designed for galaxy evolution studies. We will extend our application of this technique to the full SERVS footprint in the future.

First evidence of multiple populations along the AGB from Strömgren photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gruyters, Pieter; Casagrande, Luca; Milone, Antonino P.; Hodgkin, Simon T.; Serenelli, Aldo; Feltzing, Sofia

2017-07-01

Spectroscopic studies have demonstrated that nearly all Galactic globular clusters (GCs) harbour multiple stellar populations with different chemical compositions. Moreover, colour-magnitude diagrams based exclusively on Strömgrem photometry have allowed us to identify and characterise multiple populations along the RGB of a large number of clusters. In this paper we show for the first time that Strömgren photometry is also very efficient at identifying multiple populations along the AGB, and demonstrate that the AGB of M 3, M 92, NGC 362, NGC 1851, and NGC 6752 are not consistent with a single stellar population. We also provide a catalogue of RGB and AGB stars photometrically identified in these clusters for further spectroscopic follow-up studies. We combined photometry and elemental abundances from the literature for RGB and AGB stars in NGC 6752 where the presence of multiple populations along the AGB has been widely debated. We find that, while the MS, SGB, and RGB host three stellar populations with different helium and light element abundances, only two populations of AGB stars are present in the cluster. These results are consistent with standard evolutionary theory. Based on observations made with the Isaac Newton Telescope operated on the island of La Palma by the Isaac Newton Group in the Spanish Observatorio del Roque de los Muchachos of the Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias.Full Tables B.1 and B.2 are only available at the CDS via anonymous ftp to http://cdsarc.u-strasbg.fr (http://130.79.128.5) or via http://cdsarc.u-strasbg.fr/viz-bin/qcat?J/A+A/603/A37

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Photometry of the transient event iPTF16fnl (Blagorodnova+, 2017)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blagorodnova, N.; Gezari, S.; Hung, T.; Kulkarni, S. R.; Cenko, S. B.; Pasham, D. R.; Yan, L.; Arcavi, I.; Ben-Ami, S.; Bue, B. D.; Cantwell, T.; Cao, Y.; Castro-Tirado, A. J.; Fender, R.; Fremling, C.; Gal-Yam, A.; Ho, A. Y. Q.; Horesh, A.; Hosseinzadeh, G.; Kasliwal, M. M.; Kong, A. K. H.; Laher, R. R.; Leloudas, G.; Lunnan, R.; Masci, F. J.; Mooley, K.; Neill, J. D.; Nugent, P.; Powell, M.; Valeev, A. F.; Vreeswijk, P. M.; Walters, R.; Wozniak, P.

2018-03-01

On the night after discovery (2016 August 29th), we observed the source with the FLOYDS spectrograph on the Las Cumbres Observatory (LCO) 2m telescope and the Spectral Energy Distribution Machine (SEDM) on the Palomar 60 inch (P60) telescope. The SEDM is a ultra-low resolution (R~100) integral-field-unit (IFU) spectrograph. Following spectroscopic identification of iPTF16fnl as a tidal disruption event (TDE) candidate, the source was monitored at Palomar and by the Ultraviolet and Optical Telescope (UVOT) on board the Swift observatory. The UVOT observations were taken in UVW2, UVM2, UVW1, U, B, and V. At Palomar, photometry in the g and Mould-R bands were obtained with the iPTF mosaic wide-field camera on the Palomar 48-inch telescope (P48). Table 3 reports the measured Swift aperture photometry magnitudes and the difference-imaging photometry for the Palomar data spanning 2016 Aug to 2016 Dec. Radio follow-up observations of iPTF16fnl were taken with the Jansky Very Large Array (VLA; PI A. Horesh), the Arcminute Microkelvin Imager (AMI; PI K. Mooley) and the James Clerk Maxwell Telescope and the Submillimetre Common-User Bolometer Array 2 (JCMT/SCUBA-2; PI A. K. H. Kong). We also observed the location of iPTF16fnl with the X-Ray Telescope (XRT) on board the Swift satellite beginning at 19:32 UT on 30 August 2016. Regular monitoring of the field in photon counting mode continued over the course of the next four months (PIs T. Holoien and B. Cenko). (1 data file).

Diagnostic potential of endotoxin scattering photometry for sepsis and septic shock.

PubMed

Shimizu, Tomoharu; Obata, Toru; Sonoda, Hiromichi; Akabori, Hiroya; Miyake, Tohru; Yamamoto, Hiroshi; Tabata, Takahisa; Eguchi, Yutaka; Tani, Tohru

2013-12-01

Endotoxin scattering photometry (ESP) is a novel Limulus amebocyte lysate (LAL) assay that uses a laser light-scattering particle-counting method. In the present study, we compared ESP, standard turbidimetric LAL assay, and procalcitonin assay for the evaluation of sepsis after emergency gastrointestinal surgery. A total of 174 samples were collected from 40 adult patients undergoing emergency gastrointestinal surgery and 10 patients with colorectal cancer undergoing elective surgery as nonseptic controls. Plasma endotoxin levels were measured with ESP and turbidimetric LAL assay, and plasma procalcitonin levels were assessed with a standard procalcitonin assay. Plasma endotoxin and procalcitonin levels increased corresponding to the degree of sepsis. Endotoxin scattering photometry significantly discriminated between patients with or without septic shock: sensitivity, 81.1%; specificity, 76.6%; positive predictive value, 48.4%; negative predictive value, 93.8%; and accuracy, 77.6%. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for septic shock with the ESP assay (endotoxin cutoff value, 23.8 pg/mL) was 0.8532 ± 0.0301 (95% confidence interval, 0.7841-0.9030; P < 0.0001). The predictive power of ESP was superior to that of turbidimetric assay (difference, 0.1965 ± 0.0588; 95% confidence interval, 0.0812-0.3117; P = 0.0008). There was no significant difference in predictive power between ESP and procalcitonin assay. Endotoxin scattering photometry also discriminated between patients with and without sepsis. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that ESP had the best predictive power for diagnosing sepsis. In conclusion, compared with turbidimetric LAL assay, ESP more sensitively detected plasma endotoxin and significantly discriminated between sepsis and septic shock in patients undergoing gastrointestinal emergency surgery.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: 47 Tuc sub-giant branch chemical abundances (Marino+, 2016)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marino, A. F.; Milone, A. P.; Casagrande, L.; Collet, R.; Dotter, A.; Johnson, C. I.; Lind, K.; Bedin, L. R.; Jerjen, H.; Aparicio, A.; Sbordone, L.

2017-06-01

The photometric data set used in our study of 47 Tuc consists of HST photometry for the innermost ~3x3arcmin and ground-based photometry for the outer cluster region. Specifically, we have used the catalogues published by Milone et al. (2012ApJ...744...58M) that include photometry in the F336W (30s+1160s images from GO 11729, PI. Holtzmann), F395N bands (90s+2x1120s images from GO 11729, PI. Holtzmann) from the Ultraviolet and Visual Channel of the Advanced Camera for Surveys 3 (UVIS/WFC3) and in the F435W (9x105 s images from GO 9281, PI. Grindlay), F606W (3s+4x50s images from GO 10775, PI. Sarajedini), and F814W (3s+4x50s images from GO 10775, PI. Sarajedini) band from the Wide Field Channel of the Advanced Camera for Surveys (WFC/ACS) on board of HST. Moreover, we have used ground-based photometry in the U, B, V, and I filters from the archive maintained by Peter Stetson. The photometric catalogue has been obtained by Stetson (2000PASP..112..925S) from 856 CCD images, including 480 images taken with the Wide-Field Imager of the ESO/MPI 2.2 m telescope, and 200 with the 1.5 m telescope at Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory. The remaining 176 images come from various other telescopes. All the images were reduced using the method described by Stetson (2005PASP..117..563S) and are calibrated on the Landolt (1992AJ....104..340L, Cat. II/183) photometric system. (2 data files).

Estimating photometric redshifts for X-ray sources in the X-ATLAS field using machine-learning techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mountrichas, G.; Corral, A.; Masoura, V. A.; Georgantopoulos, I.; Ruiz, A.; Georgakakis, A.; Carrera, F. J.; Fotopoulou, S.

2017-12-01

We present photometric redshifts for 1031 X-ray sources in the X-ATLAS field using the machine-learning technique TPZ. X-ATLAS covers 7.1 deg2 observed with XMM-Newton within the Science Demonstration Phase of the H-ATLAS field, making it one of the largest contiguous areas of the sky with both XMM-Newton and Herschel coverage. All of the sources have available SDSS photometry, while 810 additionally have mid-IR and/or near-IR photometry. A spectroscopic sample of 5157 sources primarily in the XMM/XXL field, but also from several X-ray surveys and the SDSS DR13 redshift catalogue, was used to train the algorithm. Our analysis reveals that the algorithm performs best when the sources are split, based on their optical morphology, into point-like and extended sources. Optical photometry alone is not enough to estimate accurate photometric redshifts, but the results greatly improve when at least mid-IR photometry is added in the training process. In particular, our measurements show that the estimated photometric redshifts for the X-ray sources of the training sample have a normalized absolute median deviation, nmad ≈ 0.06, and a percentage of outliers, η = 10-14%, depending upon whether the sources are extended or point like. Our final catalogue contains photometric redshifts for 933 out of the 1031 X-ray sources with a median redshift of 0.9. The table of the photometric redshifts is only available at the CDS via anonymous ftp to http://cdsarc.u-strasbg.fr (http://130.79.128.5) or via http://cdsarc.u-strasbg.fr/viz-bin/qcat?J/A+A/608/A39

Deriving Physical Properties from Broadband Photometry with Prospector: Description of the Model and a Demonstration of its Accuracy Using 129 Galaxies in the Local Universe

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Leja, Joel; Johnson, Benjamin D.; Conroy, Charlie

2017-03-10

Broadband photometry of galaxies measures an unresolved mix of complex stellar populations, gas, and dust. Interpreting these data is a challenge for models: many studies have shown that properties derived from modeling galaxy photometry are uncertain by a factor of two or more, and yet answering key questions in the field now requires higher accuracy than this. Here, we present a new model framework specifically designed for these complexities. Our model, Prospector- α , includes dust attenuation and re-radiation, a flexible attenuation curve, nebular emission, stellar metallicity, and a six-component nonparametric star formation history. The flexibility and range of themore » parameter space, coupled with Monte Carlo Markov chain sampling within the Prospector inference framework, is designed to provide unbiased parameters and realistic error bars. We assess the accuracy of the model with aperture-matched optical spectroscopy, which was excluded from the fits. We compare spectral features predicted solely from fits to the broadband photometry to the observed spectral features. Our model predicts H α luminosities with a scatter of ∼0.18 dex and an offset of ∼0.1 dex across a wide range of morphological types and stellar masses. This agreement is remarkable, as the H α luminosity is dependent on accurate star formation rates, dust attenuation, and stellar metallicities. The model also accurately predicts dust-sensitive Balmer decrements, spectroscopic stellar metallicities, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon mass fractions, and the age- and metallicity-sensitive features D{sub n}4000 and H δ . Although the model passes all these tests, we caution that we have not yet assessed its performance at higher redshift or the accuracy of recovered stellar masses.« less

Unmasking the hidden NGTS-3Ab: a hot Jupiter in an unresolved binary system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Günther, Maximilian N.; Queloz, Didier; Gillen, Edward; Delrez, Laetitia; Bouchy, François; McCormac, James; Smalley, Barry; Almleaky, Yaseen; Armstrong, David J.; Bayliss, Daniel; Burdanov, Artem; Burleigh, Matthew; Cabrera, Juan; Casewell, Sarah L.; Cooke, Benjamin F.; Csizmadia, Szilárd; Ducrot, Elsa; Eigmüller, Philipp; Erikson, Anders; Gänsicke, Boris T.; Gibson, Neale P.; Gillon, Michaël; Goad, Michael R.; Jehin, Emmanuël; Jenkins, James S.; Louden, Tom; Moyano, Maximiliano; Murray, Catriona; Pollacco, Don; Poppenhaeger, Katja; Rauer, Heike; Raynard, Liam; Smith, Alexis M. S.; Sohy, Sandrine; Thompson, Samantha J.; Udry, Stéphane; Watson, Christopher A.; West, Richard G.; Wheatley, Peter J.

2018-05-01

We present the discovery of NGTS-3Ab, a hot Jupiter found transiting the primary star of an unresolved binary system. We develop a joint analysis of multi-colour photometry, centroids, radial velocity (RV) cross-correlation function (CCF) profiles and their bisector inverse slopes (BIS) to disentangle this three-body system. Data from the Next Generation Transit Survey (NGTS), SPECULOOS and HARPS are analysed and modelled with our new BLENDFITTER software. We find that the binary consists of NGTS-3A (G6V-dwarf) and NGTS-3B (K1V-dwarf) at <1" separation. NGTS-3Ab orbits every 1.675 days. The planet radius and mass are Rplanet=1.48 ± 0.37 RJand Mplanet=2.38 ± 0.26 MJ, suggesting it is potentially inflated. We emphasise that only combining all the information from multi-colour photometry, centroids and RV CCF profiles can resolve systems like NGTS-3. Such systems cannot be disentangled from single-colour photometry and RV measurements alone. Importantly, the presence of a BIS correlation indicates a blend scenario, but is not sufficient to determine which star is orbited by the third body. Moreover, even if no BIS correlation is detected, a blend scenario cannot be ruled out without further information. The choice of methodology for calculating the BIS can influence the measured significance of its correlation. The presented findings are crucial to consider for wide-field transit surveys, which require wide CCD pixels (>5") and are prone to contamination by blended objects. With TESS on the horizon, it is pivotal for the candidate vetting to incorporate all available follow-up information from multi-colour photometry and RV CCF profiles.

uvby photometry in McCormick proper motion fields

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Degewij, J.

1982-01-01

The Danish 50 cm telescope at the European Southern Observatory was used to obtain high-precision uvby photometry for 50 F2 to G2 stars, with V values in the 9.4-12.3 mag range, which were selected in the southern galactic polar regions of the McCormick proper motion fields and measured on six different nights. The brighter stars are found to systematically exhibit smaller m(1) indices, of about 0.02 mag, upon comparison with the earlier data of Blaauw et al (1976). Single measurements are given for 98 stars in eight McCormick fields at intermediate southern galactic latitudes.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Galaxies morphology and IR photometry III. (Gavazzi+, 2000)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gavazzi, G.; Franzetti, P.; Scodeggio, M.; Boselli, A.; Pierini, D.; Baffa, C.; Lisi, F.; Hunt, L. K.

1999-11-01

We present near-infrared H-band (1.65μm) surface photometry of 558 galaxies in the Coma Supercluster and in the Virgo cluster. This data set, obtained with the Arcetri NICMOS3 camera ARNICA mounted on the Gornergrat Infrared Telescope, is aimed at complementing, with observations of mostly early-type objects, our NIR survey of spiral galaxies in these regions, presented in previous papers of this series. Magnitudes at the optical radius, total magnitudes, isophotal radii and light concentration indices are derived. We confirm the existence of a positive correlation between the near-infrared concentration index and the galaxy H-band luminosity (2 data files).

OV Bootis: Forty Nights of World-Wide Photometry (Abstract)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Patterson, J.; de Miguel, E.; Barret, D.; Brincat, S.; Boardman, J., Jr.; Buczynski, D.; Campbell, T.; Cejudo, D.; Cook, L.; Cook, M. J.; Collins, D.; Cooney, W.; Dubois, F.; Dvorak, S.; Halpern, J. P.; Kroes, A. J.; Lemay, D.; Licchelli, D.; Mankel, D.; Marshall, M.; Novak, R.; Oksanen, A.; Roberts, G.; Seargeant, J.; Sears, H.; Silcox, A.; Slauson, D.; Stone, G.; Thorstensen, J. R.; Ulowetz, J.; Vanmunster, T.; Wallgren, J.; Wood, M.

2017-12-01

(Abstract only) Among the 1000 known cataclysmic variables, only one appears to belong to the "Galactic halo"-the Population II stars. We report round-the-world photometry of this star (OV Boo) during March-April 2017, when it staged its first certified dwarf-nova outburst. The star is remarkable for its short binary period (66 minutes), high proper motion, metal-poor composition, substellar secondary, sharp white-dwarf eclipses, and nonradial pulsations. Something for everybody - and it even had the good manners to erupt in northern springtime, when it transits near local midnight. Move over, SS Cyg and WZ Sge; there's a new celebrity in town!

Oscillation spectrum of WASP-33 from the MOST photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mkrtichian, David

2015-08-01

We present results of extended continuous time series photometry of the Delta Scuti type pulsating exoplanet host star WASP-33 obtained in two seasons (2011 and 2013) with the MOST space telescope. Our frequency analysis yealds rich, low-amplitude multi-frequency spectrum of oscillation modes. We discuss possible resonances between the orbiital period of the planet and frequencies of the oscillation modes. We present results of our measurements of planets orbital O-C variations and analyze possible existence of invisible planets in the system. We review recent results of the high-resolution spectroscopic campaign on WASP-33 and confirm the retrograde orbital motion of the planet WASP-33b.

Time-Series Spectroscopy and Photometry of the Helium Atmosphere Pulsating White Dwarf EC 20058-5234

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sullivan, D. J.

2017-03-01

We summarise both photometric and spectroscopic observations of the southern DBV white dwarf EC 20058-5234 (QU Tel) obtained primarily using a Magellan 6.5 m telescope. With the aim of identifying pulsation-induced spectral variations, the time-resolved 30 sMagellan spectra are phased using 54 h of contiguous time-series photometry obtained using the Mt John (NZ) 1.0 m telescope. A comparison of the DFTs obtained from a 1997 nine day multisite WET run and the two day single site Magellan observations is made. The difficulty of establishing a reliable surface temperatures for DBVs is mentioned.

Gaia Data Release 1. Validation of the photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Evans, D. W.; Riello, M.; De Angeli, F.; Busso, G.; van Leeuwen, F.; Jordi, C.; Fabricius, C.; Brown, A. G. A.; Carrasco, J. M.; Voss, H.; Weiler, M.; Montegriffo, P.; Cacciari, C.; Burgess, P.; Osborne, P.

2017-04-01

Aims: The photometric validation of the Gaia DR1 release of the ESA Gaia mission is described and the quality of the data shown. Methods: This is carried out via an internal analysis of the photometry using the most constant sources. Comparisons with external photometric catalogues are also made, but are limited by the accuracies and systematics present in these catalogues. An analysis of the quoted errors is also described. Investigations of the calibration coefficients reveal some of the systematic effects that affect the fluxes. Results: The analysis of the constant sources shows that the early-stage photometric calibrations can reach an accuracy as low as 3 mmag.

Outburst activity of the symbiotic system AG Dra

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hric, L.; Gális, R.; Leedjärv, L.; Burmeister, M.; Kundra, E.

2014-09-01

AG Dra is a well-known bright symbiotic binary with a white dwarf and a pulsating red giant. Long-term photometry monitoring and a new behaviour of the system are presented. A detailed period analysis of photometry as well as spectroscopy was carried out. In the system of AG Dra, two periods of variability are detected. The longer one around 550 d is related to the orbital motion and the shorter one around 355 d was interpreted as pulsations of the red giant in our previous article. In addition, the active stages change distinctively, but the outbursts are repeated with periods from 359-375 d.

Preliminary results on interstellar reddening as deduced from filter photometry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Laget, M.

1972-01-01

Filter photometry has been used to derive the interstellar reddening law from stars through the study of a single spectral type, B0. The deficiency in the far ultraviolet flux of a supergiant relative to a main sequence star is compared with the difference in the flux distribution due to a change of one spectral class. Individual interstellar reddening curves show the general feature reported by Stecher (1969) and by Bless and Savage (1970). There is a large amount of scatter in the far ultraviolet which may be partially due to a real difference in interstellar extinction and partially due to observational inaccuracy.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Young clumps embedded in IRDC (Traficante+, 2015)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Traficante, A.; Fuller, G. A.; Peretto, N.; Pineda, J. E.; Molinari, S.

2015-06-01

Photometric parameters for 667 starless clumps (sources identified at 160um with a counterpart at 250 and 350um) and 1056 protostellar clumps (sources identified at 160um with a counterpart at 70, 250 and 350um). Photometric parameters obtained with Hyper photometry code (2015A&A...574A.119T). The photometry is corrected for aperture and colour corrections. The parameter list is the standard Hyper output (see description below). SED fit parameters for 650 starless clumps and 1034 protostellar clumps (all clumps with good SED fitting: Chi2<10, Temperature<40K. See the paper for details) (4 data files).

VizieR Online Data Catalog: VI photometry of Berkeley 66 (Guarnieri+ 1997)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guarnieri, M. D.; Carraro, G.

1996-06-01

A colour magnitude diagram (CMD) extending to V=~19mag is given for 444 stars in the region of the galactic cluster Berkeley 66. The V and I photometry of a nearby field is also reported. This object appears very faint, highly contaminated by foreground stars and very reddened. The apparent distance modulus (m-M) and the colour excess EV-I are guessed to be 17.5 and 1.1, respectively, with an uncertainty of at least 30%. Adopting these values the comparison of the CMD with theoretical isochrones from the Padova group provides an age around 1.0Gyr. (1 data file).

The Brightening of the Red Supergiant alpha Ori

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wasatonic, R. P.; Guinan, E. F.

2016-09-01

We have been carrying out V-band and Wing TiO-band and Near-IR photoelectric photometry of the semi-regular variable red supergiant alpha Ori (Betelgeuse) over last 20 yrs. Photometry obtained during early to mid September 2016 indicates that the star is at (or near) maximum light at = +0.29 mag. Measures of TiO-band and near-IR colors indicate that alpha Ori has undergone a temperature increase of about +120 K and has an estimated spectral type of M0.5 Iab. Because alpha Ori is one of the nearest Type II SN progenitors, it an important star to monitor.

Photometry and polarimetry of V 1057 Cygni.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rieke, G.; Lee, T.; Coyne, G.

1972-01-01

Evaluation of extensive photometric and polarimetric data over a six-month interval for V 1057 Cyg. The polarization appears to be constant and of interstellar origin; the photometry, which extends nearly six octaves from the ultraviolet to 22 microns in the infrared, indicates that the total observed luminosity is decreasing - having now declined about 10% from its earlier level. A model characterized by two circumstellar shells which absorb and reradiate short-wavelength stellar flux from an underlying A1-type star provides the best fit to the observational data. The present variability, however, cannot be due to circumstellar activity, but appears to originate in the star itself.

Results of the 2015 Mexican Asteroid Photometry Campaign

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sada, Pedro V.; Navarro-Meza, Samuel; Reyes-Ruiz, Mauricio; Olguin, Lorenzo L.; Saucedo, Julio C.; Loera-Gonzalez, Pablo

2016-04-01

The 2015 Mexican Asteroid Photometry Campaign was organized at the 2nd National Planetary Astrophysics Workshop held in 2015 March at the Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León in Monterrey, México. Three asteroids were selected for coordinated observations from several Mexican observatories. We report full lightcurves for the main-belt asteroid 1084 Tamariwa (P = 6.195 ± 0.001 h) and near-Earth asteroid (NEA) 4055 Magellan (P = 7.479 ± 0.001 h). Asteroid 1466 Mundleria was also observed on eight nights but no lightcurve was obtained because of its faintness, a crowded field-of-view, and low amplitude (<0.03 mag).

TRIPPy: Trailed Image Photometry in Python

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fraser, Wesley; Alexandersen, Mike; Schwamb, Megan E.; Marsset, Michaël; Pike, Rosemary E.; Kavelaars, J. J.; Bannister, Michele T.; Benecchi, Susan; Delsanti, Audrey

2016-06-01

Photometry of moving sources typically suffers from a reduced signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) or flux measurements biased to incorrect low values through the use of circular apertures. To address this issue, we present the software package, TRIPPy: TRailed Image Photometry in Python. TRIPPy introduces the pill aperture, which is the natural extension of the circular aperture appropriate for linearly trailed sources. The pill shape is a rectangle with two semicircular end-caps and is described by three parameters, the trail length and angle, and the radius. The TRIPPy software package also includes a new technique to generate accurate model point-spread functions (PSFs) and trailed PSFs (TSFs) from stationary background sources in sidereally tracked images. The TSF is merely the convolution of the model PSF, which consists of a moffat profile, and super-sampled lookup table. From the TSF, accurate pill aperture corrections can be estimated as a function of pill radius with an accuracy of 10 mmag for highly trailed sources. Analogous to the use of small circular apertures and associated aperture corrections, small radius pill apertures can be used to preserve S/Ns of low flux sources, with appropriate aperture correction applied to provide an accurate, unbiased flux measurement at all S/Ns.

Detailed studies om three open clusters from Gaia ESO Survey (GES)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Balaguer-Núnez, L.; Casamiquela, L.; Jordana, N.; Massana, P.; Jordi, C.; Masana, E.

2017-03-01

We present results for the intermediate-age and old open clusters NGC 6633, NGC 6705 (M 11) and NGC 2682 (M 67). We have used new Str ̈omgren-Crawford photometry, proper motions from ROA observations and spectral information from Gaia-ESO Survey (GES), to study the physical parameters of the stars in the three cluster's areas. The astrometric studies cover an area of about 1°x2° and down to r' ˜ 17 while our INT-WFC CCD intermediate-band photometry covers an area of about 40'x40' down to V ˜ 19. The stars of those areas selected as cluster members from their proper motions, are classified into photometric regions and their physical parameters determined, using uvbyHβ photometry and standard relations among colour indices for each of the photometric regions of the HR diagram. That allows us to determine reddening, distances, absolute magnitudes, spectral types, effective temperatures, gravities and metallicities, thus providing an astrophysical characterization of the clusters. These results are compared with the physical parameters obtained from GES spectral data as well as radial velocities to confirm membership. All these data lead us to a comparison of photometric and spectroscopic physical parameters.

The Pan-STARRS1 Surveys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chambers, Kenneth; Pan-STARRS Team

2018-01-01

The Pan-STARRS1 Surveys are complete and the first data release, DR1, is available from the Mikulski Archive for Space Telescopes (MAST) at the Space Telescope Science Institute. The data include a database of measured attributes of 3 billion objects, stacked images, and metadata of the 3pi Steradian Survey. The DR1 contains all stationary objects with mean and stack photometry registered on the GAIA astrometric frame. DR2 is in preparation and will be released this winter with all the individual epoch images and time domain photometry and forced photometry on the individual epoch images. The characteristics of the Pan-STARRS1 Surveys will be presented, including image quality, depth, cadence, and coverage. Measured attributes include PSF model magnitudes, aperture magnitudes, Kron Magnitudes, radial moments, Petrosian magnitudes, DeVaucoulers, Exponential, and Sersic magnitudes for extended objects. Images include total intensity, variance, and masks.An overview of the Pan-STARRS1 Surveys and data releases will be presented together with a brief description of the data collected since the end of the PS1 Science Consortium surveys, and the plans for the upcoming survey with PS1 and PS2 begining in February 2018.

NEW EXTINCTION AND MASS ESTIMATES FROM OPTICAL PHOTOMETRY OF THE VERY LOW MASS BROWN DWARF COMPANION CT CHAMAELEONTIS B WITH THE MAGELLAN AO SYSTEM

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wu, Ya-Lin; Close, Laird M.; Males, Jared R.

We used the Magellan adaptive optics system and its VisAO CCD camera to image the young low mass brown dwarf companion CT Chamaeleontis B for the first time at visible wavelengths. We detect it at r', i', z', and Y{sub S}. With our new photometry and T {sub eff} ∼ 2500 K derived from the shape of its K-band spectrum, we find that CT Cha B has A{sub V} = 3.4 ± 1.1 mag, and a mass of 14-24 M{sub J} according to the DUSTY evolutionary tracks and its 1-5 Myr age. The overluminosity of our r' detection indicates thatmore » the companion has significant Hα emission and a mass accretion rate ∼6 × 10{sup –10} M {sub ☉} yr{sup –1}, similar to some substellar companions. Proper motion analysis shows that another point source within 2'' of CT Cha A is not physical. This paper demonstrates how visible wavelength adaptive optics photometry (r', i', z', Y{sub S}) allows for a better estimate of extinction, luminosity, and mass accretion rate of young substellar companions.« less

An anomalous extinction law in the Cep OB3b young cluster: Evidence for dust processing during gas dispersal

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Allen, Thomas S.; Prchlik, Jakub J.; Megeath, S. Thomas

We determine the extinction law through Cep OB3b, a young cluster of 3000 stars undergoing gas dispersal. The extinction is measured toward 76 background K giants identified with MMT/Hectospec spectra. Color excess ratios were determined toward each of the giants using V and R photometry from the literature, g, r, i, and z photometry from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey and J, H, and K{sub s} photometry from the Two Micron All Sky Survey. These color excess ratios were then used to construct the extinction law through the dusty material associated with Cep OB3b. The extinction law through Cep OB3bmore » is intermediate between the R{sub V} = 3.1 and R{sub V} = 5 laws commonly used for the diffuse atomic interstellar medium and dense molecular clouds, respectively. The dependence of the extinction law on line-of-sight A{sub V} is investigated and we find the extinction law becomes shallower for regions with A{sub V} > 2.5 mag. We speculate that the intermediate dust law results from dust processing during the dispersal of the molecular cloud by the cluster.« less

New Eclipsing Contact Binary System in Auriga

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Austin, S. J.; Robertson, J. W.; Justice, C.; Campbell, R. T.; Hoskins, J.

2004-05-01

We present data on a newly discovered eclipsing binary system. The serendipitous discovery of this variable star was made by J.W. Robertson analyzing inhomogeneous ensemble photometry of stars in the field of the cataclysmic variable FS Aurigae from Indiana University RoboScope data. We obtained differential time-series BVR photometry during 2003 of this field variable using an ensemble of telescopes including the university observatories at ATU, UCA and joint ventures with amateur observatories in the state of Arkansas (Whispering Pines Observatory and Nubbin Ridge Observatory). The orbital period of this eclipsing system is 0.2508 days. The B-V light curve indicates colors of 1.2 around quadrature, to nearly 1.4 at primary eclipse. Binary star light curve models that best fit the BVR differential photometry suggest that the system is a contact binary overfilling the inner Roche Lobe by 12%, a primary component with a temperature of 4350K, a secondary component with a temperature of 3500K, a mass ratio of 0.37, and an inclination of 83 degrees. We present BVR light curves, an ephemeris, and best fit model parameters for the physical characteristics of this new eclipsing binary system.

Determination of the fundamental properties of an M31 globular cluster from main-sequence photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Jun

2013-02-01

We determined the age of the M31 globular cluster B379 using isochrones of the Padova stellar evolutionary models. At the same time, the cluster's metal abundance, its distance modulus, and reddening value were also obtained. The results obtained in this paper are consistent with previous determinations, including the age. Brown et al. constrained the age of B379 by comparing its color-magnitude diagram with isochrones of the 2006 VandenBerg models. Therefore, this paper confirms the consistency of the age scale of B379 between the Padova isochrones and the 2006 VandenBerg isochrones. The results of B379 obtained in this paper are: metallicity [M/H] = log(Z/Z⊙) = -0.325 dex, age τ = 11.0 +/- 1.5 Gyr, reddening E(B - V) = 0.08 mag, and distance modulus (m - M)0 = 24.44 +/- 0.10 mag. Using the metallicity, the reddening value and the distance modulus obtained in this paper, we constrained the age of B379 by comparing its multicolor photometry with theoretical stellar population synthesis models. The age of B379 obtained is 10.6-0.76 +0.92 Gyr, which is in very good agreement with the determination from main-sequence photometry.

GLOBULAR AND OPEN CLUSTERS OBSERVED BY SDSS/SEGUE: THE GIANT STARS

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Morrison, Heather L.; Ma, Zhibo; Connor, Thomas

We present griz observations for the clusters M92, M13 and NGC 6791 and gr photometry for M71, Be 29 and NGC 7789. In addition we present new membership identifications for all these clusters, which have been observed spectroscopically as calibrators for the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS)/SEGUE survey; this paper focuses in particular on the red giant branch stars in the clusters. In a number of cases, these giants were too bright to be observed in the normal SDSS survey operations, and we describe the procedure used to obtain spectra for these stars. For M71, we also present a newmore » variable reddening map and a new fiducial for the gr giant branch. For NGC 7789, we derived a transformation from T{sub eff} to g–r for giants of near solar abundance, using IRFM T{sub eff} measures of stars with good ugriz  and 2MASS photometry and SEGUE spectra. The result of our analysis is a robust list of known cluster members with correctly dereddened and (if needed) transformed gr photometry for crucial calibration efforts for SDSS and SEGUE.« less

New Extinction and Mass Estimates from Optical Photometry of the Very Low Mass Brown Dwarf Companion CT Chamaeleontis B with the Magellan AO System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Ya-Lin; Close, Laird M.; Males, Jared R.; Barman, Travis S.; Morzinski, Katie M.; Follette, Katherine B.; Bailey, Vanessa; Rodigas, Timothy J.; Hinz, Philip; Puglisi, Alfio; Xompero, Marco; Briguglio, Runa

2015-03-01

We used the Magellan adaptive optics system and its VisAO CCD camera to image the young low mass brown dwarf companion CT Chamaeleontis B for the first time at visible wavelengths. We detect it at r', i', z', and YS . With our new photometry and T eff ~ 2500 K derived from the shape of its K-band spectrum, we find that CT Cha B has AV = 3.4 ± 1.1 mag, and a mass of 14-24 MJ according to the DUSTY evolutionary tracks and its 1-5 Myr age. The overluminosity of our r' detection indicates that the companion has significant Hα emission and a mass accretion rate ~6 × 10-10 M ⊙ yr-1, similar to some substellar companions. Proper motion analysis shows that another point source within 2'' of CT Cha A is not physical. This paper demonstrates how visible wavelength adaptive optics photometry (r', i', z', YS ) allows for a better estimate of extinction, luminosity, and mass accretion rate of young substellar companions. This paper includes data gathered with the 6.5 m Magellan Clay Telescope at Las Campanas Observatory, Chile.

A new look at photometry of the Moon

USGS Publications Warehouse

Goguen, J.D.; Stone, T.C.; Kieffer, H.H.; Buratti, B.J.

2010-01-01

We use ROLO photometry (Kieffer, H.H., Stone, T.C. [2005]. Astron. J. 129, 2887-2901) to characterize the before and after full Moon radiance variation for a typical highlands site and a typical mare site. Focusing on the phase angle range 45??. ) to calculate the scattering matrix and solve the radiative transfer equation for I/. F. The mean single scattering albedo is ??=0.808, the asymmetry parameter is ???cos. ?????=0.77 and the phase function is very strongly peaked in both the forward and backward scattering directions. The fit to the observations for the highland site is excellent and multiply scattered photons contribute 80% of I/. F. We conclude that either model, roughness or multiple scattering, can match the observations, but that the strongly anisotropic phase functions of realistic particles require rigorous calculation of many orders of scattering or spurious photometric roughness estimates are guaranteed. Our multiple scattering calculation is the first to combine: (1) a regolith model matched to the measured particle size distribution and index of refraction of the lunar soil, (2) a rigorous calculation of the particle phase function and solution of the radiative transfer equation, and (3) application to lunar photometry with absolute radiance calibration. ?? 2010 Elsevier Inc.

A PSF photometry tool for NASA's Kepler, K2, and TESS missions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cardoso, Jose Vinicius De Miranda; Barentsen, Geert; Hedges, Christina L.; Gully-Santiago, Michael A.; Cody, Ann Marie; Montet, Ben

2018-01-01

NASA's Kepler and K2 missions have impacted all areas of astrophysics in unique and important ways by delivering high-precision time series data on asteroids, stars, and galaxies. For example, both the official Kepler pipeline and the various community-owned pipelines have been successful at discovering a myriad of transiting exoplanets around a wide range of stellar types. However, the existing pipelines tend to focus on studying isolated stars using simple aperture photometry, and often perform sub-optimally in crowded fields where objects are blended. To address this issue, we present a Point Spread Function (PSF) photometry toolkit for Kepler and K2 which is able to extract light curves from crowded regions, such as the Beehive Cluster, the Lagoon Nebula, and the M67 globular cluster, which were all recently observed by Kepler. We present a detailed discussion on the theory, the practical use, and demonstrate our tool on various levels of crowding. Finally, we discuss the future use of the tool on data from the TESS mission. The code is open source and available on GitHub as part of the PyKE toolkit for Kepler/K2 data analysis.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Solar neighborhood. XXXII. L and M dwarfs (Dieterich+, 2014)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dieterich, S. B.; Henry, T. J.; Jao, W.-C.; Winters, J. G.; Hosey, A. D.; Riedel, A. R.; Subasavage, J. P.

2015-01-01

We obtained VRI photometry for all targets in our sample using the Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory (CTIO) 0.9m telescope for the brighter targets and the SOuthern Astrophysical Research (SOAR) Optical Imager camera on the SOAR 4.1m telescope for fainter targets. SOAR observations were conducted between 2009 September and 2010 December during six observing runs comprising NOAO programs 2009B-0425, 2010A-0185, and 2010B-0176. A total of 17 nights on SOAR were used for optical photometry. Table 1 shows the photometry in the photometric system used by the telescope with which the measurements were taken (Johnson-Kron-Cousins for the CTIO 0.9m telescope and Bessell for SOAR). Astrometric observations are based in part on observations obtained via the Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory Parallax Investigation (CTIOPI), at the Cerro Tololo 0.9m telescope. CTIOPI is a large and versatile astrometric monitoring program targeting diverse types of stellar and substellar objects in the solar neighborhood. Observations are taken using the CTIO 0.9m telescope and its sole instrument, a 2048*2048 Tektronix imaging CCD detector with a plate scale of 0.401''/pixel. (4 data files).

Identifying High-redshift Gamma-Ray Bursts with RATIR

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Littlejohns, O. M.; Butler, N. R.; Cucchiara, A.; Watson, A. M.; Kutyrev, A. S.; Lee, W. H.; Richer, M. G.; Klein, C. R.; Fox, O. D.; Prochaska, J. X.; Bloom, J. S.; Troja, E.; Ramirez-Ruiz, E.; de Diego, J. A.; Georgiev, L.; González, J.; Román-Zúñiga, C. G.; Gehrels, N.; Moseley, H.

2014-07-01

We present a template-fitting algorithm for determining photometric redshifts, z phot, of candidate high-redshift gamma-ray bursts (GRBs). Using afterglow photometry, obtained by the Reionization and Transients InfraRed (RATIR) camera, this algorithm accounts for the intrinsic GRB afterglow spectral energy distribution, host dust extinction, and the effect of neutral hydrogen (local and cosmological) along the line of sight. We present the results obtained by this algorithm and the RATIR photometry of GRB 130606A, finding a range of best-fit solutions, 5.6 < z phot < 6.0, for models of several host dust extinction laws (none, the Milky Way, Large Magellanic Clouds, and Small Magellanic Clouds), consistent with spectroscopic measurements of the redshift of this GRB. Using simulated RATIR photometry, we find that our algorithm provides precise measures of z phot in the ranges of 4 < z phot <~ 8 and 9 < z phot < 10 and can robustly determine when z phot > 4. Further testing highlights the required caution in cases of highly dust-extincted host galaxies. These tests also show that our algorithm does not erroneously find z phot < 4 when z sim > 4, thereby minimizing false negatives and allowing us to rapidly identify all potential high-redshift events.

The Prevalence of Earth-size Planets Orbiting Sun-like Stars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Petigura, Erik; Marcy, Geoffrey W.; Howard, Andrew

2015-01-01

In less than two decades since the discovery of the first planet orbiting another Sun-like star, the study of extrasolar planets has matured beyond individual discoveries to detailed characterization of the planet population as a whole. No mission has played more of a role in this paradigm shift than NASA's Kepler mission. Kepler photometry has shown that planets like Earth are common throughout the Milky Way Galaxy. Our group performed an independent search of Kepler photometry using our custom transit-finding pipeline, TERRA, and produced our own catalog of planet candidates. We conducted spectroscopic follow-up of their host stars in order to rule out false positive scenarios and to better constrain host star properties. We measured TERRA's sensitivity to planets of different sizes and orbital periods by injecting synthetic planets into raw Kepler photometry and measuring the recovery rate. Correcting for orbital tilt and survey completeness, we found that ~80% of GK stars harbor one or more planets within 1 AU and that ~22% of Sun-like stars harbor an Earth-size planet that receives similar levels of stellar radiation as Earth. I will present the latest results from our efforts to characterize the demographics of small planets revealed by Kepler.

Pan-STARRS Data Release 2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Flewelling, Heather

2018-01-01

On December 19, 2016, Pan-STARRS released the stacked images, mean attributes catalogs, and static sky catalogs for the 3pi survey, in 5 filters (g,r,i,z,y), covering 3/4 of the sky, everything north of -30 in declination. This set of data is called Data Release 1 (DR1), and it is available to all at http://panstarrs.stsci.edu. It contains more than 10 billion objects, 3 billion of those objects have stack photometry. We give an update on the progress of the forthcoming Data Release (DR2) database, which will provide time domain catalogs and single exposures for the 3pi survey. This includes 3pi data taken between 2010 and 2014, covering approximately 60 epochs per patch of sky, and includes measurements detected in the single exposures as well as forced photometry measurements (photometry measured on single exposures using the positions from sources detected in the stacks). We also provide informations on futures releases (DR3 and beyond), which will contain the rest of the 3pi database (specifically, the data products related to difference imaging), as well as the data products for the Medium Deep (MD) survey.

Time-Resolved Near-Infrared Photometry of Extreme Kuiper Belt Object Haumea

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lacerda, Pedro

2009-02-01

We present time-resolved near-infrared (J and H) photometry of the extreme Kuiper belt object (136108) Haumea (formerly 2003 EL61) taken to further investigate rotational variability of this object. The new data show that the near-infrared peak-to-peak photometric range is similar to the value at visible wavelengths, ΔmR = 0.30 ± 0.02 mag. Detailed analysis of the new and previous data reveals subtle visible/near-infrared color variations across the surface of Haumea. The color variations are spatially correlated with a previously identified surface region, redder in B - R and darker than the mean surface. Our photometry indicates that the J - H colors of Haumea (J - H = -0.057 ± 0.016 mag) and its brightest satellite Hi'iaka (J - H = -0.399 ± 0.034 mag) are significantly (greater than 9σ) different. The satellite Hi'iaka is unusually blue in J - H, consistent with strong 1.5 μm water-ice absorption. The phase coefficient of Haumea is found to increase monotonically with wavelength in the range 0.4 < λ < 1.3. We compare our findings with other solar system objects and discuss implications regarding the surface of Haumea.

Photometry of the Variable Bright Red Supergiant Betelgeuse from the Ground and from Space with the BRITE Nano-satellites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Minor, Robert; Guinan, Edward F.

2016-01-01

Robert B. Minor, Edward Guinan, Richard Wasatonic Betelgeuse (Alpha Orionis) is a large, luminous semi-regular red supergiant of spectral class M1.5-2Iab. It is the 8th brightest star in the night sky. Betelgeuse is 30,000 times more luminous than the Sun and 700 times larger. It has an estimated age of ~8 +/- 2 Myr. Betelgeuse explode in a Type II supernova (anytime within the next million years). When it explodes, it will shine with about the intensity of a full moon and may be visible during the day. However, it is too far away to cause any major damage to Earth. Photometry of this pre-supernova star has been ongoing at Villanova for nearly 45 years. These observations are being used to define the complex brightness variations of this star. Semi-regular periodic light variations have been found with periods of 385 days up to many years. These light variations are used to study its unstable atmosphere and resulting complex pulsations. Over the last 15 years, it has been observed by Wasatonic who has accumulated a large photometric database. The ground-based observations are limited to precisions of 1.5%, and due to poor weather, limit observations to about 1-2 times per week. However, with the recent successful launch of the BRITE Nano-satellites (http://www.brite-constellation.at) during 2013-14, it is possible to secure high precision photometry of bright stars, including Betelgeuse, continuously for up to 3 months. Villanova has participated in the BRITE guest investigators program and has been awarded observing time and data rights many bright stars, including Betelgeuse. BRITE blue and red observations of Betelgeuse were carried out during the Nov-Feb 2013-14 season and the 2014-15. These datasets were given to Villanova and have been combined with coexistent photometry from Wasatonic. Although BRITE's red data is saturated, the blue data is useable. The BRITE datasets were combined with our ground-based V, red, and near-IR photometry. Problems were uncovered with the some of the BRITE data, but they were resolved for the most part. We present and discuss the results obtained so far.

The Secret Lives of Cepheids: Searching for Evolutionary Changes Using Photoelectric Photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Toce, Michael; Guinan, Edward F.; Engle, Scott G.; Wasatonic, Richard P.

2016-01-01

Classical Cepheids are pulsating, yellow supergiants and one of the most important classes of variable stars. They have a direct linear relationship between their period and luminosity and thus serve as crucial "standard candles" for determining the cosmic distance scale and measuring the Hubble Constant. Also, Cepheids play a fundamental role in the calibration of Type Ia supernovae, indicating that the expansion of the Universe is accelerating, and also infer the existence of dark energy. Studies of changes in their pulsation periods and amplitudes reveal evolutionary changes too subtle to detect directly, and understanding these various characteristics of Cepheids is critical to their use as high-precision standard candles. To this end, the Villanova Secret Lives of Cepheids (SLiC) program was created as a comprehensive study of Cepheid behavior, evolution, pulsations, atmospheres, heating dynamics, shocks and winds. As part of the SLiC program, ground-based photometry is being carried out of small sample of bright Cepheids. The observations are being made using the 14-inch reflector telescope at Villanova Campus Observatory. Mounted on the telescope is a SBIG photoelectric photometer equipped with standard Johnson UBVRI filters. Photometry is being carried out of the following stars along with their spectral type, period, and visual mag: X Cyg (F7Ib, ~16.39d, 6.47mag), DT Cyg (F7.5Ib, ~2.5d, 5.82mag), S Sge (G5Ibv, ~8.38d, 5.36mag), FF Aql (F6Ib, ~4.47d, 5.38mag), Eta Aql (F6Iab, ~7.18d,3.80mag), and Delta Cep (F5Iab, ~5.37d, 3.75mag). The primary scientific objectives are to obtain light curves to investigate possible evolutionary changes from small variations in luminosity, light amplitude and pulsation period. Special emphasis was placed on the classical Cepheid X Cyg due to recent changes in pulsation period, shown by Szabados via a phase jump in X Cyg's O-C (observed - calculated). X Cyg holds priority in our observations as we attempt to affirm or deny this pulsation period change. We combined the Villanova photometry with complementary B, V and Near-IR photometry conducted from nearby Allentown by Wasatonic.

Kepler sheds new and unprecedented light on the variability of a blue supergiant: Gravity waves in the O9.5Iab star HD 188209

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aerts, C.; Símon-Díaz, S.; Bloemen, S.; Debosscher, J.; Pápics, P. I.; Bryson, S.; Still, M.; Moravveji, E.; Williamson, M. H.; Grundahl, F.; Fredslund Andersen, M.; Antoci, V.; Pallé, P. L.; Christensen-Dalsgaard, J.; Rogers, T. M.

2017-06-01

Stellar evolution models are most uncertain for evolved massive stars. Asteroseismology based on high-precision uninterrupted space photometry has become a new way to test the outcome of stellar evolution theory and was recently applied to a multitude of stars, but not yet to massive evolved supergiants.Our aim is to detect, analyse and interpret the photospheric and wind variability of the O9.5 Iab star HD 188209 from Kepler space photometry and long-term high-resolution spectroscopy. We used Kepler scattered-light photometry obtained by the nominal mission during 1460 d to deduce the photometric variability of this O-type supergiant. In addition, we assembled and analysed high-resolution high signal-to-noise spectroscopy taken with four spectrographs during some 1800 d to interpret the temporal spectroscopic variability of the star. The variability of this blue supergiant derived from the scattered-light space photometry is in full in agreement with the one found in the ground-based spectroscopy. We find significant low-frequency variability that is consistently detected in all spectral lines of HD 188209. The photospheric variability propagates into the wind, where it has similar frequencies but slightly higher amplitudes. The morphology of the frequency spectra derived from the long-term photometry and spectroscopy points towards a spectrum of travelling waves with frequency values in the range expected for an evolved O-type star. Convectively-driven internal gravity waves excited in the stellar interior offer the most plausible explanation of the detected variability. Based on photometric observations made with the NASA Kepler satellite and on spectroscopic observations made with four telescopes: the Nordic Optical Telescope operated by NOTSA and the Mercator Telescope operated by the Flemish Community, both at the Observatorio del Roque de los Muchachos (La Palma, Spain) of the Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias, the T13 2.0 m Automatic Spectroscopic Telescope (AST) operated by Tennessee State University at the Fairborn Observatory, and the Hertzsprung SONG telescope operated on the Spanish Observatorio del Teide on the island of Tenerife by the Aarhus and Copenhagen Universities and by the Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias, Spain.

The roAp star α Circinus as seen by BRITE-Constellation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weiss, W. W.; Fröhlich, H.-E.; Pigulski, A.; Popowicz, A.; Huber, D.; Kuschnig, R.; Moffat, A. F. J.; Matthews, J. M.; Saio, H.; Schwarzenberg-Czerny, A.; Grant, C. C.; Koudelka, O.; Lüftinger, T.; Rucinski, S. M.; Wade, G. A.; Alves, J.; Guedel, M.; Handler, G.; Mochnacki, St.; Orleanski, P.; Pablo, B.; Pamyatnykh, A.; Ramiaramanantsoa, T.; Rowe, J.; Whittaker, G.; Zawistowski, T.; Zocłońska, E.; Zwintz, K.

2016-04-01

We report on an analysis of high-precision, multi-colour photometric observations of the rapidly-oscillating Ap (roAp) star α Cir. These observations were obtained with the BRITE-Constellation, which is a coordinated mission of five nanosatellites that collects continuous millimagnitude-precision photometry of dozens of bright stars for up to 180 days at a time in two colours (≈Johnson B and R). BRITE stands for BRight Target Explorer. The object α Cir is the brightest roAp star and an ideal target for such investigations, facilitating the determination of oscillation frequencies with high resolution. This star is bright enough for complementary interferometry and time-resolved spectroscopy. Four BRITE satellites observed α Cir for146 d or 33 rotational cycles. Phasing the photometry according to the 4.4790 d rotational period reveals qualitatively different light variations in the two photometric bands. The phased red-band photometry is in good agreement with previously-published WIRE data, showing a light curve symmetric about phase 0.5 with a strong contribution from the first harmonic. The phased blue-lband data, in contrast, show an essentially sinusoidal variation. We model both light curves with Bayesian Photometric Imaging, which suggests the presence of two large-scale, photometrically bright (relative to the surrounding photosphere) spots. We also examine the high-frequency pulsation spectrum as encoded in the BRITE photometry. Our analysis establishes the stability of the main pulsation frequency over the last ≈20 yr, confirms the presence of frequency f7, which was not detected (or the mode not excited) prior to 2006, and excludes quadrupolar modes for the main pulsation frequency. Based on data collected by the BRITE-Constellation satellite mission, built, launched and operated thanks to support from the Austrian Aeronautics and Space Agency, the University of Vienna, the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), the Foundation for Polish Science & Technology (FNiTP MNiSW), and National Centre for Science (NCN).The light curves and the reduced data for α Circinus are only available at the CDS via anonymous ftp to http://cdsarc.u-strasbg.fr (ftp://130.79.128.5) or via http://cdsarc.u-strasbg.fr/viz-bin/qcat?J/A+A/588/A54 Member of the BRITE Executive Science Team (BEST).Member of the Photometry Tiger Team (PHOTT).

CCD Photometry of Six Asteroids from the Universidad de Monterry Observatory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sada, Pedro V.

2008-09-01

CCD photometry of six asteroids was obtained at the Universidad de Monterrey Observatory during January and February 2008. The resulting synodic rotation periods and amplitudes are as follows: 1292 Luce, 6.9541 ± 0.0002 h, 0.20 ± 0.01 mag; 1303 Luthera, 5.878 ± 0.003 h, 0.08 ± 0.01 mag; 1900 Katyusha, 9.4999 ± 0.0001 h, 0.72 ± 0.02 mag, 2807 Karl Marx, 8.842 ± 0.001 h, 0.40 ± 0.05 mag; 3409 Abramov, 7.791 ± 0.002 h, 0.55 ± 0.02 mag; and 9117 Aude, 2.8156 ± 0.0001 h, 0.20 ± 0.01 mag.

Maximizing JWST Science for Dusty White Dwarfs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Farihi, Jay; Dennihy, Erik; Gentile Fusillo, Nicola; Debes, John; Gaensicke, Boris

2018-05-01

We propose a small program to increase the number of dusty white dwarfs that can be studied in detail by the James Webb Space Telescope. Currently, there are 8 systems for which MIRI MRS spectroscopy can be carried out in less than a few hours per target, and here we propose to double this number. Using cross-correlation of AllWISE photometry with Southern Hemisphere surveys such as Edinburgh-Cape and ATLAS, we have selected the strongest 22 potential dusty white dwarf candidates. We propose to use warm IRAC imaging photometry as the ultimate discriminant between dust and common photometric contaminants. This program has immediate legacy value via detailed mineralogical studies of debris disks using JWST.

Time Resolved Precision Differential Photometry with OAFA's Double Astrograph

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

González, E. P. A.; Podestá, F.; Podestá, R.; Pacheco, A. M.

2018-01-01

For the last 50 years, the Double Astrograph located at the Carlos U. Cesco station of the Observatorio Astronómico Félix Aguilar (OAFA), San Juan province, Argentina, was used for astrometric observations and research. The main programs involved the study of asteroid positions and proper motions of stars in the Southern hemisphere, being the latter a long time project that is near completion from which the SPM4 catalog is the most recent version (Girard et al. 2011). In this paper, new scientific applications in the field of photometry that can be accomplished with this telescope are presented. These first attempts show the potential of the instrument for such tasks.

Transit Photometry of Recently Discovered Hot Jupiters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McCloat, Sean Peter

The University of North Dakota Space Studies Internet Observatory was used to observe the transits of hot Jupiter exoplanets. Targets for this research were selected from the list of currently confirmed exoplanets using the following criteria: radius > 0.5 Rjup, discovered since 2011, orbiting stars with apparent magnitude > 13. Eleven transits were observed distributed across nine targets with the goal of performing differential photometry for parameter refinement and transit timing variation analysis if data quality allowed. Data quality was ultimately insufficient for robust parameter refinement, but tentative calculations of mid-transit times were made of three of the observed transits. Mid-transit times for WASP-103b and WASP-48b were consistent with predictions and the existing database.

Development of a LED based standard for luminous flux

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sardinha, André; Ázara, Ivo; Torres, Miguel; Menegotto, Thiago; Grieneisen, Hans Peter; Borghi, Giovanna; Couceiro, Iakyra; Zim, Alexandre; Muller, Filipe

2018-03-01

Incandescent lamps, simple artifacts with radiation spectrum very similar to a black-body emitter, are traditional standards in photometry. Nowadays LEDs are broadly used in lighting, with great variety of spectra, and it is convenient to use standards for photometry with spectral distribution similar to that of the measured artifact. Research and development of such standards occur in several National Metrology Institutes. In Brazil, Inmetro is working on a practical solution for providing a LED based standard to be used for luminous flux measurements in the field of general lighting. This paper shows the measurements made for the developing of a prototype, that in sequence will be characterized in photometric quantities.

The quality of photometric information in the Hipparcos Input Catalog

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Casertano, Stefano; Bell, David J.; Ratnatunga, Kavan U.; Yoss, Kenneth M.

1993-01-01

Comparison with independent photoelectric photometry is used to assess the quality of magnitudes and colors in the Hipparcos Input Catalog. These magnitudes and colors will play an important role in the luminosity calibration of Hipparcos stars. We conclude that photoelectric photometry, available for about 37 percent of the catalog, is of uniformly good quality, and the error estimates in the Catalog are very accurate. On the other hand, colors determined from poor spectral classes suffer from very significant errors, also correctly estimated in the Catalog, which make them essentially unsuited for the purpose of luminosity calibration. Only stars with either photoelectric colors or good 2D spectral classes can be used in a high-accuracy luminosity calibration.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Littlefield, Colin; Garnavich, Peter; Kennedy, Mark

We analyze long-cadence Kepler K2 observations of AR Sco from 2014, along with survey photometry obtained between 2005 and 2016 by the Catalina Real-Time Sky Survey and the All-Sky Automated Survey for Supernovae. The K2 data show the orbital modulation to have been fairly stable during the 78 days of observations, but we detect aperiodic deviations from the average waveform with an amplitude of ∼2% on a timescale of a few days. A comparison of the K2 data with the survey photometry reveals that the orbital waveform gradually changed between 2005 and 2010, with the orbital maximum shifting to earliermore » phases. We compare these photometric variations with proposed models of this unusual system.« less

Relation between star formation and AGN activity in typical elliptical galaxies: Analysis of the 2MASS K-band galaxy images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pierce, Katherine

2014-01-01

We are carrying out a program of aperture photometry on typical elliptical galaxies. While there are many ways to calculate the and magnitude, we are going to use the Aperture Photometry Tool (APT) GUI and the program IRAF (Image Reduction and Analysis Facility). By looking at a sample of 236 galaxies from the 2MASS survey k-band, it was determined that 68 of the galaxies needed some sort of a pixel blocking technique due to unwanted background stars or galaxies that may interfere with our readings. My job is to determine a way to block out these pixels while not compromising the true from the galaxy.

Local constraints on cosmic string loops from photometry and pulsar timing

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pshirkov, M. S.; Tuntsov, A. V.; Sternberg Astronomical Institute, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119992

2010-04-15

We constrain the cosmological density of cosmic string loops using two observational signatures--gravitational microlensing and the Kaiser-Stebbins effect. Photometry from RXTE and CoRoT space missions and pulsar timing from Parkes Pulsar Timing Array, Arecibo and Green Bank radio telescopes allow us to probe cosmic strings in a wide range of tensions G{mu}/c{sup 2}=10{sup -16} divide 10{sup -10}. We find that pulsar timing data provide the most stringent constraints on the abundance of light strings at the level {Omega}{sub s{approx}}10{sup -3}. Future observational facilities such as the Square Kilometer Array will allow one to improve these constraints by orders of magnitude.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: The populations of Carina. II. Abundances (Norris+, 2017)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Norris, J. E.; Yong, D.; Venn, K. A.; Gilmore, G.; Casagrande, L.; Dotter, A.

2017-08-01

Our selection of objects is based on unpublished CCD V, I observations that we have made of the Carina galaxy. High-resolution, moderate-S/N spectra were obtained of 39 Carina red giants, during 2007 November-2008 March, with the FLAMES system at the 8.2m Kueyen (VLT/UT2) telescope at Cerro Paranal. The spectra cover the wavelength ranges 4800-5750Å and 5840-6800Å. The resolving power was R=47000. Photometry has been obtained from several sources: P. B. Stetson provided us with homogenized BVI, M. J. Irwin furnished JHK from ESO VISTA survey photometry, and M. Gullieuszik supplied BVIJHKs. (12 data files).

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Photometry/spectroscopic measurements for KA1858+4850 (Pei+, 2014)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pei, L.; Barth, A. J.; Aldering, G. S.; Briley, M. M.; Carroll, C. J.; Carson, D. J.; Cenko, S. B.; Clubb, K. I.; Cohen, D. P.; Cucchiara, A.; Desjardins, T. D.; Edelson, R.; Fang, J. J.; Fedrow, J. M.; Filippenko, A. V.; Fox, O. D.; Furniss, A.; Gates, E. L.; Gregg, M.; Gustafson, S.; Horst, J. C.; Joner, M. D.; Kelly, P. L.; Lacy, M.; Laney, C. D.; Leonard, D. C.; Li, W.; Malkan, M. A.; Margon, B.; Neeleman, M.; Nguyen, M. L.; Prochaska, J. X.; Ross, N. R.; Sand, D. J.; Searcy, K. J.; Shivvers, I. S.; Silverman, J. M.; Smith, G. H.; Suzuki, N.; Smith, K. L.; Tytler, D.; Werk, J. K.; Worseck, G.

2017-05-01

We employed the Lick Observatory 3 m Shane telescope with the Kast Spectrograph and five other ground-based telescopes to spectroscopically and photometrically monitor KA1858+4850 from 2012 February to November. Reverberation mapping requires a continuum light curve with high sampling cadence and S/N. To achieve this, we obtained V-band images from ground-based telescopes and used aperture photometry to construct a light curve for KA1858+4850 that has nearly nightly sampling for a span of 290 days. For several reasons, we chose to use the V-band light curve rather than the Kepler light curve for reverberation measurements. (2 data files).

Photometry of AM Herculis - A slow optical pulsar

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Priedhorsky, W. C.; Krzeminski, W.

1978-01-01

Multicolor photometry of the X-ray binary AM Her suggests that the red component of the optical flux is closely related to the source of optical circular polarization in the system. It is concluded from the periodic modulation of flux in the U through R bands, which is particularly well-defined when plotted as color curves, that the primary and secondary minima are neither eclipses by a secondary star nor eclipses by a hot spot. It is suggested that the primary minimum in the visual light curve is the eclipse of a region of intense optical emission in the magnetic field near the surface of a degenerate dwarf by that dwarf itself.

The Selection of RR Lyrae Stars Using POSS and SDSS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fraser, Oliver J.; Barton, J. R.; Oldfield, B. J.; Biesiadzinski, T. P.; Horning, D. A.; Baerny, J. K.; Kiuchi, F.; Krogsrud, D.; Longhurst, D. S.; McCommas, L. P.; Scheidt, J. A.; Covarrubias, R.; Covey, K.; Laws, C.; Sesar, B.; Ivezic, Z.

2006-12-01

We test a method for identifying candidate RR Lyrae stars based on a comparison of POSS and SDSS photometry (Sesar et. al. 2005). Our candidate stars range in SDSS g magnitude from 14.4--16, or a distance of 6--12 kpc. Follow-up photometry obtained at Manastash Ridge Observatory typically includes 30-40 points per light curve. We find that at least two thirds of our sample of 23 objects are clearly variable, with light curves consistent with RR Lyrae. Candidate RR Lyrae were selected using stars that had brightened at least 0.3 magnitudes between POSS and SDSS, and which had SDSS magnitudes and colors consistent with the cuts in Ivezic et al. 2004.

IR photometry results and dust envelope model for symbiotic Mira star candidate V 335 Vul

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bogdanov, M. B.; Taranova, O. G.; Shenavrin, V. I.

2017-10-01

We present the results of JHKLM-photometry for the symbiotic Mira star candidate V 335 Vul. Based on the average flux data, supplemented by IRAS, MSX, AKARI, and WISE mid-IR observations, we calculated a model of a spherically symmetric dust envelope of the star, made up of amorphous carbon and silicon carbide particles. The optical depth of the envelope in the visible range with a dust temperature at the inner boundary of T 1 = 1300 K is τ V = 0.58. For an envelope expansion velocity of 26.5 km s-1, the estimated mass loss rate is equal to 5.7 × 10-7 M ⊙ yr-1.

The sdA problem - II. Photometric and spectroscopic follow-up

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pelisoli, Ingrid; Kepler, S. O.; Koester, D.; Castanheira, B. G.; Romero, A. D.; Fraga, L.

2018-07-01

The spectral classification `subdwarf A' (sdA) is given to stars showing H-rich spectra and sub-main-sequence surface gravities, but effective temperature lower than the zero-age horizontal branch. Their evolutionary origin is an enigma. In this work, we discuss the results of follow-up observations of selected sdAs. We obtained time-resolved spectroscopy for 24 objects and time-series photometry for another 19 objects. For two targets, we report both spectroscopy and photometry observations. We confirm seven objects to be new extremely low-mass white dwarfs (ELMs), one of which is a known eclipsing star. We also find the eighth member of the pulsating ELM class.

K2 photometry and HERMES spectroscopy of the blue supergiant ρ Leo: rotational wind modulation and low-frequency waves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aerts, C.; Bowman, D. M.; Símon-Díaz, S.; Buysschaert, B.; Johnston, C.; Moravveji, E.; Beck, P. G.; De Cat, P.; Triana, S.; Aigrain, S.; Castro, N.; Huber, D.; White, T.

2018-05-01

We present an 80-d long uninterrupted high-cadence K2 light curve of the B1Iab supergiant ρ Leo (HD 91316), deduced with the method of halo photometry. This light curve reveals a dominant frequency of frot = 0.0373 d-1 and its harmonics. This dominant frequency corresponds with a rotation period of 26.8 d and is subject to amplitude and phase modulation. The K2 photometry additionally reveals multiperiodic low-frequency variability (<1.5 d-1) and is in full agreement with low-cadence high-resolution spectroscopy assembled during 1800 d. The spectroscopy reveals rotational modulation by a dynamic aspherical wind with an amplitude of about 20 km s-1 in the H α line, as well as photospheric velocity variations of a few km s-1 at frequencies in the range 0.2-0.6 d-1 in the Si III 4567 Å line. Given the large macroturbulence needed to explain the spectral line broadening of the star, we interpret the detected photospheric velocity as due to travelling superinertial low-degree large-scale gravity waves with dominant tangential amplitudes and discuss why ρ Leo is an excellent target to study how the observed photospheric variability propagates into the wind.

Standardized Photometric Calibrations for Panchromatic SSA Sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Castro, P.; Payne, T.; Battle, A.; Cole, Z.; Moody, J.; Gregory, S.; Dao, P.

2016-09-01

Panchromatic sensors used for Space Situational Awareness (SSA) have no standardized method for transforming the net flux detected by a CCD without a spectral filter into an exo-atmospheric magnitude in a standard magnitude system. Each SSA data provider appears to have their own method for computing the visual magnitude based on panchromatic brightness making cross-comparisons impossible. We provide a procedure in order to standardize the calibration of panchromatic sensors for the purposes of SSA. A technique based on theoretical modeling is presented that derives standard panchromatic magnitudes from the Johnson-Cousins photometric system defined by Arlo Landolt. We verify this technique using observations of Landolt standard stars and a Vega-like star to determine empirical panchromatic magnitudes and compare these to synthetically derived panchromatic magnitudes. We also investigate color terms caused by differences in the quantum efficiency (QE) between the Landolt standard system and panchromatic systems. We evaluate calibrated panchromatic satellite photometry by observing several GEO satellites and standard stars using three different sensors. We explore the effect of satellite color terms by comparing the satellite signatures. In order to remove other variables affecting the satellite photometry, two of the sensors are at the same site using different CCDs. The third sensor is geographically separate from the first two allowing for a definitive test of calibrated panchromatic satellite photometry.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: NGC 4038/4039 broad and /narrow band photometry (Mengel+, 2005)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mengel, S.; Lehnert, M. D.; Thatte, N.; Genzel, R.

2005-06-01

The Ks-band image which was used for the 3{sigma}-detection was obtained with ISAAC on VLT-ANTU as part of programme 65.N-0577, and has a FWHM of ~0.38". 1072 point-like objects were detected. For the multi-band photometry, we also used the HST archival images obtained by Whitmore et al. (see Whitmore et al., 1999AJ....118.1551W), which we rebinned to the same pixel size as the ISAAC image (0.1484"/pix). The CO narrow band image was also obtained with ISAAC, while the Br{gamma} image was obtained with SOFI at the NTT (programme number 63.N-0528). The Br{gamma} image had a lower image quality than the other two images (FWHM=0.7"). The photometry data were used to simultaneously fit age and extinction for each individual cluster in comparison to an evolutionary synthesis model. Where possible, the visual extinction was determined from an average of the extinction from the broadband fit and from the Hydrogen recombination line ratios (in comparison to the expected Case B line ratio). The age estimate from the fit was, where possible, averaged with the aged determined from equivalent widths and CO index. (1 data file).

Deep and wide photometry of the two open clusters NGC 1245 and NGC 2506: CCD observation and physical properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, S. H.; Kang, Y.-W.; Ann, H. B.

2012-09-01

We have conducted VI CCD photometry of the two open clusters NGC 1245 and NGC 2506 using the CFH12K CCD camera. Our photometry covers a sky area of 84 × 82 and 42 × 81 arcmin2 for the two clusters, respectively, and reaches down to V ≈ 23. We derived the physical parameters using detailed theoretical isochrone fittings using χ2 minimization. The derived cluster parameters are E(B - V) = 0.24 ± 0.05 and 0.03 ± 0.04, (V - MV)0 = 12.25 ± 0.12 and 12.47 ± 0.08, age (Gyr) = 1.08 ± 0.09 and 2.31 ± 0.16, and [Fe/H] = -0.08 ± 0.06 and -0.24 ± 0.06, respectively, for NGC 1245 and NGC 2506. We present the luminosity functions of the two clusters, which reach down to MV ≈ 10, and derive mass functions with slopes of Γ = -1.29 for NGC 1245 and Γ = -1.26 for NGC 2506. The slopes are slightly shallower than that of the solar neighbourhood, implying the existence of dynamical evolution that drives the evaporation of the low-mass stars in the clusters.

Seven-color Vilnius photometry and classification of stars in the region of the North Ecliptic Pole

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zdanavičius, K.; Straižys, V.; Zdanavičius, J.; Chmieliauskaitė, R.; Kazlauskas, A.

2012-08-01

The results of photometry of 948 stars down to V = 16.2 mag in the Vilnius seven-color system at the North Ecliptic Pole (NEP) are presented. Among them, 293 stars have all seven magnitudes, 331 stars have no ultraviolet magnitudes and 324 stars have no ultraviolet and violet magnitudes. Photometric data are used to classify about 500 stars in spectral and luminosity classes. For the remaining stars one-dimensional spectral classes are given. Some stars are suspected as new F and G subdwarfs and metal-deficient giants. The dependence of interstellar extinction on distance in the direction of NEP is discussed. The average extinction in the area for stars with d > 500 pc is found to be AV = 0.10 ± 0.01 mag, with the standard deviation 0.14 mag. The results of photometry and classification can be used to supplement the catalog of Gaia standard stars near the Ecliptic poles. To facilitate this, we present transformation of the Vilnius magnitudes to the magnitudes of the SDSS and Gaia systems. Full Tables 2 and 3 are only available in electronic form at the CDS via anonymous ftp to cdsarc.u-strasbg.fr (130.79.128.5) or via http://cdsarc.u-strasbg.fr/viz-bin/qcat?J/A+A/544/A49.

Imaging and mapping the impact of clouds on skyglow with all-sky photometry.

PubMed

Jechow, Andreas; Kolláth, Zoltán; Ribas, Salvador J; Spoelstra, Henk; Hölker, Franz; Kyba, Christopher C M

2017-07-27

Artificial skyglow is constantly growing on a global scale, with potential ecological consequences ranging up to affecting biodiversity. To understand these consequences, worldwide mapping of skyglow for all weather conditions is urgently required. In particular, the amplification of skyglow by clouds needs to be studied, as clouds can extend the reach of skyglow into remote areas not affected by light pollution on clear nights. Here we use commercial digital single lens reflex cameras with fisheye lenses for all-sky photometry. We track the reach of skyglow from a peri-urban into a remote area on a clear and a partly cloudy night by performing transects from the Spanish town of Balaguer towards Montsec Astronomical Park. From one single all-sky image, we extract zenith luminance, horizontal and scalar illuminance. While zenith luminance reaches near-natural levels at 5 km distance from the town on the clear night, similar levels are only reached at 27 km on the partly cloudy night. Our results show the dramatic increase of the reach of skyglow even for moderate cloud coverage at this site. The powerful and easy-to-use method promises to be widely applicable for studies of ecological light pollution on a global scale also by non-specialists in photometry.

Deriving Color-Color Transformations for VRI Photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Taylor, B. J.; Joner, M. D.

2006-12-01

In this paper, transformations between Cousins R-I and other indices are considered. New transformations to Cousins V-R and Johnson V-K are derived, a published transformation involving T1-T2 on the Washington system is rederived, and the basis for a transformation involving b-y is considered. In addition, a statistically rigorous procedure for deriving such transformations is presented and discussed in detail. Highlights of the discussion include (1) the need for statistical analysis when least-squares relations are determined and interpreted, (2) the permitted forms and best forms for such relations, (3) the essential role played by accidental errors, (4) the decision process for selecting terms to appear in the relations, (5) the use of plots of residuals, (6) detection of influential data, (7) a protocol for assessing systematic effects from absorption features and other sources, (8) the reasons for avoiding extrapolation of the relations, (9) a protocol for ensuring uniformity in data used to determine the relations, and (10) the derivation and testing of the accidental errors of those data. To put the last of these subjects in perspective, it is shown that rms errors for VRI photometry have been as small as 6 mmag for more than three decades and that standard errors for quantities derived from such photometry can be as small as 1 mmag or less.

Long-term Photometric Variability in Kepler Full-frame Images: Magnetic Cycles of Sun–like Stars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Montet, Benjamin T.; Tovar, Guadalupe; Foreman-Mackey, Daniel

2017-12-01

Photometry from the Kepler mission is optimized to detect small, short-duration signals like planet transits at the expense of long-term trends. This long-term variability can be recovered in photometry from the full-frame images (FFIs), a set of calibration data collected approximately monthly during the Kepler mission. Here we present f3, an open-source package to perform photometry on the Kepler FFIs in order to detect changes in the brightness of stars in the Kepler field of view over long time baselines. We apply this package to a sample of 4000 Sun–like stars with measured rotation periods. We find that ≈10% of these targets have long-term variability in their observed flux. For the majority of targets, we find that the luminosity variations are either correlated or anticorrelated with the short-term variability due to starspots on the stellar surface. We find a transition between anticorrelated (starspot-dominated) variability and correlated (facula-dominated) variability between rotation periods of 15 and 25 days, suggesting the transition between the two modes is complete for stars at the age of the Sun. We also identify a sample of stars with apparently complete cycles, as well as a collection of short-period binaries with extreme photometric variation over the Kepler mission.

Calibration of the photometric G passband for Gaia Data Release 1

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maíz Apellániz, J.

2017-12-01

Context. On September 2016 the first data from Gaia were released (DR1). The first release included photometry for over 109 sources in the very broad G system. Aims: The aims here are to test the correspondence between G magnitudes in DR1 and the synthetic equivalents derived using spectral energy distributions from observed and model spectrophotometry; to correct the G passband curve; and to measure the zero point in the Vega system. Methods: I have computed the synthetic G and Tycho-2 BTVT photometry for a sample of stars using the Next Generation Spectral Library (NGSL) and the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) CALSPEC spectroscopic standards. Results: I have found that the nominal G passband curve is too blue for the DR1 photometry, as shown by the presence of a color term in the comparison between observed and synthetic magnitudes. A correction to the passband applying a power law in λ with an exponent of 0.783 eliminates the color term. The corrected passband has a Vega zero point of 0.070 ± 0.004 mag. Tables 1 and 2 are only available at the CDS via anonymous ftp to http://cdsarc.u-strasbg.fr (http://130.79.128.5) or via http://cdsarc.u-strasbg.fr/viz-bin/qcat?J/A+A/608/L8

Study of Intermediate Age (~10-30 Myr) Open Clusters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Olguin, Lorenzo; Michel, Raul; Contreras, Maria; Hernandez, Jesus; Schuster, William; Chavarria-Kleinhenn, Carlos

2013-07-01

We present the study of a sample of intermediate age open clusters (age ~ 10-30 Myr) using optical (UBVRI) and infrared photometric data. Optical photometry was obtained as part of the San Pedro Martir Open Clusters Project (SPM-OCP, Schuster et al. 2007; Michel et al. 2013). Infrared photometry was retrieved from 2MASS public data archive and WISE database. Open clusters included in the SPM-OCP were selected from catalogues presented by Dias et al. (2002) and Froebrich, Scholz & Raftery (2007). One of the main goals of the SPM-OCP is to compile a self-consistent and homogeneous set of cluster fundamental parameters such as reddening, distance, age, and metallicity whenever possible. In this work, we have analyzed a set of 25 clusters from the SPM-OCP with estimated ages between 10 and 30 Myr. Derived fundamental parameters for each cluster in the sample as well as an example of typical color-color and color-magnitude diagrams are presented. Kinematic membership was established by using proper motion data taken from the literature. Based on infrared photometry, we have searched for candidate stars to posses a circumstellar disk within each clusters. For those selected candidates a follow-up spectroscpic study is being carried out. This work was partially supported by UNAM-PAPIIT grant IN-109311.

SONG China project - participating in the global network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deng, Licai; Xin, Yu; Zhang, Xiaobin; Li, Yan; Jiang, Xiaojun; Wang, Guomin; Wang, Kun; Zhou, Jilin; Yan, Zhengzhou; Luo, Zhiquan

2013-01-01

SONG (Stellar Observations Network Goup) is a low-cost ground based international collaboration aimed at two cutting edge problems in contemporary astrophysics in the time-domain: 1) Direct diagnostics of the internal structure of stars and 2) looking for and studying extra solar planets, possibly in the habitable zone. The general plan is to set up a network of 1m telescopes uniformly distributed in geographic latitude (in both hemispheres). China jointed the collaboration (initiated by Danish astronomers) at the very beginning. In addition to SONG's original plan (http://song.phys.au.dk), the Chinese team proposed a parallel photometry subnet work in the northern hemisphere, namely 50BiN (50cm Binocular Network, previously known as mini-SONG), to enable a large field photometric capability for the network, therefore maximising the potential of the network platform. The network will be able to produce nearly continuous time series observations of a number of selected objects with high resolution spectroscopy (SONG) and accurate photometry (50BiN), and to produce ultra-high accuracy photometry in dense field to look for micro-lensing events caused by planetary systems. This project has great synergy with Chinese Astronomical activities in Antarctica (Dome A), and other similar networks (e.g. LCOGT). The plan and current status of the project are overviewed in this poster.

EX Hydrae in outburst

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hellier, C.; Mason, K. O.; Smale, A. P.; Corbet, R. H. D.; O'Donoghue, D.

1989-01-01

Photometry and red spectroscopy of the intermediate polar EX Hya in its rare outburst state are presented. Photometry during the declining phase of the July-August 1986 outburst shows the 67-min (spin) modulation to be present with similar characteristics to that in quiescence. In contrast, photometry from near the peak of the 1987 May outburst shows little evidence of the 67-min modulation, while spectroscopy obtained nearly simultaneously is similarly lacking in such evidence, despite its presence in quiescent spectroscopic data. Near the beginning of the May 1987 outburst the H alpha emission line develops a broad, high velocity base component whose velocity is modulated with the orbital cycle. The velocity and phase of the broad base component suggest that it is produced near the magnetosphere of the white dwarf at a point along the projected trajectory of the gas stream from the companion. The feature disappears later in the outburst and is not present during quiescence. It is suggested that the outbursts in EX Hya are caused by an increase in the rate of mass transfer from the companion, and that part of this enhanced mass-transfer stream skims over the top of the accretion disk to strike the magnetosphere directly. The interaction of the stream with the magnetosphere gives rise to the broad-base component observed.

A Synthesis of Star Calibration Techniques for Ground-Based Narrowband Electron-Multiplying Charge-Coupled Device Imagers Used in Auroral Photometry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Grubbs, Guy II; Michell, Robert; Samara, Marilia; Hampton, Don; Jahn, Jorg-Micha

2016-01-01

A technique is presented for the periodic and systematic calibration of ground-based optical imagers. It is important to have a common system of units (Rayleighs or photon flux) for cross comparison as well as self-comparison over time. With the advancement in technology, the sensitivity of these imagers has improved so that stars can be used for more precise calibration. Background subtraction, flat fielding, star mapping, and other common techniques are combined in deriving a calibration technique appropriate for a variety of ground-based imager installations. Spectral (4278, 5577, and 8446 A ) ground-based imager data with multiple fields of view (19, 47, and 180 deg) are processed and calibrated using the techniques developed. The calibration techniques applied result in intensity measurements in agreement between different imagers using identical spectral filtering, and the intensity at each wavelength observed is within the expected range of auroral measurements. The application of these star calibration techniques, which convert raw imager counts into units of photon flux, makes it possible to do quantitative photometry. The computed photon fluxes, in units of Rayleighs, can be used for the absolute photometry between instruments or as input parameters for auroral electron transport models.

Stromvil Photometry of Clusters II. The Open Cluster M67

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boyle, R. P.; Philip, A. G. D.; Straižys, V.

1998-12-01

Use of the Stromgren four-color photometric system with the addition of three filters (P, Z, S) of the Vilnius system allows classifying all the types of stars, even in the presence of significant reddening by interstellar dust (Strai\\v{z}ys et al, 1996). With this Stromvil system we have begun a long-term observational program on the Vatican Advanced Technology Telescope (VATT) on Mt. Graham, Arizona, (see Philip et al,1996). The Loral 2K by 2K CCD, prepared by M. Lesser of the University of Arizona CCD Lab, gives as high as 90% quantum efficiency in most of the filters and notably 65% at the u filter. To demonstrate the degree of success so far attained in this CCD Stromvil System, we present preliminary results on the open cluster M67. We will compare some of our photometry with the CCD results of B. A. Twarog (1987) and the photoelectric photometry of Nissen et al. (1987). REFERENCES Nissen, P.E., Twarog, B.A., and Crawford, D.L. 1987, A.J. 93,634 Philip, A.G. Davis, Boyle, R.P., Strai\\v{z}ys, V. 1996, Baltic Astronomy,5,445 Strai\\v{z}ys, V., Crawford, D.L., Philip, A.G.Davis 1996, Baltic Astronomy, 5,83 Twarog, B.A. 1987, A.J. 93,647

Polarimetry and Photometry of Gamma-Ray Bursts with RINGO2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Steele, I. A.; Kopač, D.; Arnold, D. M.; Smith, R. J.; Kobayashi, S.; Jermak, H. E.; Mundell, C. G.; Gomboc, A.; Guidorzi, C.; Melandri, A.; Japelj, J.

2017-07-01

We present a catalog of early-time (˜ {10}2-{10}4 s) photometry and polarimetry of all gamma-ray burst (GRB) optical afterglows observed with the RINGO2 imaging polarimeter on the Liverpool Telescope. Of the 19 optical afterglows observed, the following nine were bright enough to perform photometry and attempt polarimetry: GRB 100805A, GRB 101112A, GRB 110205A, GRB 110726A, GRB 120119A, GRB 120308A, GRB 120311A, GRB 120326A, and GRB 120327A. We present multiwavelength light curves for these 9 GRBs, together with estimates of their optical polarization degrees and/or limits. We carry out a thorough investigation of detection probabilities, instrumental properties, and systematics. Using two independent methods, we confirm previous reports of significant polarization in GRB 110205A and 120308A, and report the new detection of P={6}-2+3% in GRB101112A. We discuss the results for the sample in the context of the reverse- and forward-shock afterglow scenario, and show that GRBs with detectable optical polarization at early time have clearly identifiable signatures of reverse-shock emission in their optical light curves. This supports the idea that GRB ejecta contain large-scale magnetic fields, and it highlights the importance of rapid-response polarimetry.

CANDELS/GOODS-S, CDFS, and ECDFS: photometric redshifts for normal and X-ray-detected galaxies

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hsu, Li-Ting; Salvato, Mara; Nandra, Kirpal

2014-11-20

We present photometric redshifts and associated probability distributions for all detected sources in the Extended Chandra Deep Field South (ECDFS). This work makes use of the most up-to-date data from the Cosmic Assembly Near-IR Deep Legacy Survey (CANDELS) and the Taiwan ECDFS Near-Infrared Survey (TENIS) in addition to other data. We also revisit multi-wavelength counterparts for published X-ray sources from the 4 Ms CDFS and 250 ks ECDFS surveys, finding reliable counterparts for 1207 out of 1259 sources (∼96%). Data used for photometric redshifts include intermediate-band photometry deblended using the TFIT method, which is used for the first time inmore » this work. Photometric redshifts for X-ray source counterparts are based on a new library of active galactic nuclei/galaxy hybrid templates appropriate for the faint X-ray population in the CDFS. Photometric redshift accuracy for normal galaxies is 0.010 and for X-ray sources is 0.014 and outlier fractions are 4% and 5.2%, respectively. The results within the CANDELS coverage area are even better, as demonstrated both by spectroscopic comparison and by galaxy-pair statistics. Intermediate-band photometry, even if shallow, is valuable when combined with deep broadband photometry. For best accuracy, templates must include emission lines.« less

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Photometry and proper motions in Praesepe (Wang+, 2014)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, P. F.; Chen, W. P.; Lin, C. C.; Pandey, A. K.; Huang, C. K.; Panwar, N.; Lee, C. H.; Tsai, M. F.; Tang, C.-H.; Goldman, B.; Burgett, W. S.; Chambers, K. C.; Draper, P. W.; Flewelling, H.; Grav, T.; Heasley, J. N.; Hodapp, K. W.; Huber, M. E.; Jedicke, R.; Kaiser, N.; Kudritzki, R.-P.; Luppino, G. A.; Lupton, R. H.; Magnier, E. A.; Metcalfe, N.; Monet, D. G.; Morgan, J. S.; Onaka, P. M.; Price, P. A.; Stubbs, C. W.; Sweeney, W.; Tonry, J. L.; Wainscoat, R. J.; Waters, C.

2016-08-01

Data used in this study include photometry and proper motion measurements within a 5° radius around the Praesepe center (R.A.=08h40m, decl.=+19°42', J2000). Archival data were taken from the 2MASS Point Sources Catalog (2MASS; cat. II/246), PPMXL (Roeser et al. 2010, cat. I/317), and Panoramic Survey Telescope And Rapid Response (Pan-STARRS). Pan-STARRS is a wide-field (7deg2) imaging system, with a 1.8m, f/4.4 telescope, equipped with a 1.4 giga-pixel camera. The prototype (PS1), located atop Haleakala, Maui, USA, has been patrolling the entire sky north of -30° declination since mid-2010 with a combination of gP1, rP1, iP1, zP1, and yP1 bands. The PS1 filters differ slightly from those of the SDSS. The gP1 filter extends 20nm redward of gSDSS for greater sensitivity and lower systematics for photometric redshift estimates. SDSS has no corresponding y filter (Tonry et al. 2012, cat. J/ApJ/750/99). Upon the completion of its 3.5yr mission by early 2014, PS1 will provide reliable photometry and astrometry. Table1 lists the properties of the 1040 candidates. (1 data file).

SPARC: MASS MODELS FOR 175 DISK GALAXIES WITH SPITZER PHOTOMETRY AND ACCURATE ROTATION CURVES

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lelli, Federico; McGaugh, Stacy S.; Schombert, James M., E-mail: federico.lelli@case.edu

2016-12-01

We introduce SPARC ( Spitzer Photometry and Accurate Rotation Curves): a sample of 175 nearby galaxies with new surface photometry at 3.6  μ m and high-quality rotation curves from previous H i/H α studies. SPARC spans a broad range of morphologies (S0 to Irr), luminosities (∼5 dex), and surface brightnesses (∼4 dex). We derive [3.6] surface photometry and study structural relations of stellar and gas disks. We find that both the stellar mass–H i mass relation and the stellar radius–H i radius relation have significant intrinsic scatter, while the H i   mass–radius relation is extremely tight. We build detailedmore » mass models and quantify the ratio of baryonic to observed velocity ( V {sub bar}/ V {sub obs}) for different characteristic radii and values of the stellar mass-to-light ratio (ϒ{sub ⋆}) at [3.6]. Assuming ϒ{sub ⋆} ≃ 0.5 M {sub ⊙}/ L {sub ⊙} (as suggested by stellar population models), we find that (i) the gas fraction linearly correlates with total luminosity; (ii) the transition from star-dominated to gas-dominated galaxies roughly corresponds to the transition from spiral galaxies to dwarf irregulars, in line with density wave theory; and (iii)  V {sub bar}/ V {sub obs} varies with luminosity and surface brightness: high-mass, high-surface-brightness galaxies are nearly maximal, while low-mass, low-surface-brightness galaxies are submaximal. These basic properties are lost for low values of ϒ{sub ⋆} ≃ 0.2 M {sub ⊙}/ L {sub ⊙} as suggested by the DiskMass survey. The mean maximum-disk limit in bright galaxies is ϒ{sub ⋆} ≃ 0.7 M {sub ⊙}/ L {sub ⊙} at [3.6]. The SPARC data are publicly available and represent an ideal test bed for models of galaxy formation.« less

Toward a Prescription for Feedback from Quasar Outflows

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ganguly, Rajib; Bourjaily, M.; Munsell, J.; Brotherton, M. S.; Bhattacharjee, A.; Runnoe, J.; Charlton, J. C.; Eracleous, M.

2011-01-01

Models have shown that quasars are a crucial ingredient in the evolution of massive galaxies. Outflows play a key role in the story of quasars and their host galaxies, by helping regulate the accretion process, the star-formation rate and mass of the host galaxy (i.e., feedback). The prescription for modeling outflows as a contributor to feedback requires knowledge of the outflow velocity, distance, geometry, and column density. In particular, we need to understand how these depend on physical parameters and how much is determined stochastically (and with what distribution). For this purpose, we are examining a sample of 14000 z=1.7-2.0 quasars from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. This redshift range permits the following from the SDSS spectra: (1) separation of objects that do and do not exhibit outflows; (2) classification/measurement of outflow properties (ionization, velocity, velocity width); and (3) estimates of the quasar black hole mass. To this, we are adding photometry from GALEX, 2MASS, and ROSAT in an effort to characterize more fully the quasar SEDs. ROSAT photometry provides estimates of the level of soft X-ray absorption, which helps regulate the velocity of outflows. GALEX photometry samples the extreme ultraviolet range where several high ionization species, that may be present in the outflows, absorb light. 2MASS photometry samples the rest-frame optical, where the effects of absorption and dust reddening are minimal, yield better estimates of the bolometric luminosity (hence, Eddington ratio). In this poster, we will present preliminary measurements of the amount of absorption in the soft X-ray and extreme ultraviolet bands as a function of both outflow properties and quasar physical properties. This material is based upon work supported by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration under Grant No. 09-ADP09-0016 issued through the Astrophysics Data Analysis Program.

Time-series Photometry of the Pre-Main Sequence Binary V4046 Sgr: Testing the Accretion Stream Theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tofflemire, Benjamin M.; Mathieu, Robert D.; Ardila, David R.; Ciardi, David R.

2015-01-01

Most stars are born in binaries, and the evolution of protostellar disks in pre-main sequence (PMS) binary stars is a current frontier of star formation research. PMS binary stars can have up to three accretion disks: two circumstellar disks and a circumbinary disk separated by a dynamically cleared gap. Theory suggests that mass may periodically flow in an accretion stream from a circumbinary disk across the gap onto circumstellar disks or stellar surfaces. Thus, accretion in PMS binaries is controlled by not only radiation, disk viscosity, and magnetic fields, but also by orbital dynamics.As part of a larger, ongoing effort to characterize mass accretion in young binary systems, we test the predictions of the binary accretion stream theory through continuous, multi-orbit, multi-color optical and near-infrared (NIR) time-series photometry. Observations such as these are capable of detecting and characterizing these modulated accretion streams, if they are generally present. Broad-band blue and ultraviolet photometry trace the accretion luminosity and photospheric temperature while NIR photometry provide a measurement of warm circumstellar material, all as a function of orbital phase. The predicted phase and magnitude of enhanced accretion are highly dependent on the binary orbital parameters and as such, our campaign focuses on 10 PMS binaries of varying periods and eccentricities. Here we present multi-color optical (U, B,V, R), narrowband (Hα), and multi-color NIR (J, H) lightcurves of the PMS binary V4046 Sgr (P=2.42 days) obtained with the SMARTS 1.3m telescope and LCOGT 1m telescope network. These results act to showcase the quality and breadth of data we have, or are currently obtaining, for each of the PMS binaries in our sample. With the full characterization of our sample, these observations will guide an extension of the accretion paradigm from single young stars to multiple systems.

An Application of Multi-band Forced Photometry to One Square Degree of SERVS: Accurate Photometric Redshifts and Implications for Future Science

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Nyland, Kristina; Lacy, Mark; Sajina, Anna

We apply The Tractor image modeling code to improve upon existing multi-band photometry for the Spitzer Extragalactic Representative Volume Survey (SERVS). SERVS consists of post-cryogenic Spitzer observations at 3.6 and 4.5 μ m over five well-studied deep fields spanning 18 deg{sup 2}. In concert with data from ground-based near-infrared (NIR) and optical surveys, SERVS aims to provide a census of the properties of massive galaxies out to z  ≈ 5. To accomplish this, we are using The Tractor to perform “forced photometry.” This technique employs prior measurements of source positions and surface brightness profiles from a high-resolution fiducial band from themore » VISTA Deep Extragalactic Observations survey to model and fit the fluxes at lower-resolution bands. We discuss our implementation of The Tractor over a square-degree test region within the XMM Large Scale Structure field with deep imaging in 12 NIR/optical bands. Our new multi-band source catalogs offer a number of advantages over traditional position-matched catalogs, including (1) consistent source cross-identification between bands, (2) de-blending of sources that are clearly resolved in the fiducial band but blended in the lower resolution SERVS data, (3) a higher source detection fraction in each band, (4) a larger number of candidate galaxies in the redshift range 5 <  z  < 6, and (5) a statistically significant improvement in the photometric redshift accuracy as evidenced by the significant decrease in the fraction of outliers compared to spectroscopic redshifts. Thus, forced photometry using The Tractor offers a means of improving the accuracy of multi-band extragalactic surveys designed for galaxy evolution studies. We will extend our application of this technique to the full SERVS footprint in the future.« less

GJ 1214: Rotation period, starspots, and uncertainty on the optical slope of the transmission spectrum

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mallonn, M.; Herrero, E.; Juvan, I. G.; Essen, C. von; Rosich, A.; Ribas, I.; Granzer, T.; Alexoudi, X.; Strassmeier, K. G.

2018-06-01

Aims: Brightness inhomogeneities in the stellar photosphere (dark spots or bright regions) affect the measurements of the planetary transmission spectrum. To investigate the star spots of the M dwarf GJ 1214, we conducted a multicolor photometric monitoring from 2012 to 2016. Methods: The time-series photometry was analyzed with the light curve inversion tool StarSim. Using the derived stellar surface properties from the light curve inversion, we modeled the impact of the star spots when unocculted by the transiting planet. We compared the photometric variability of GJ 1214 to published results of mid- to late M dwarfs from the MEarth sample. Results: The measured variability shows a periodicity of 125 ± 5 days, which we interpret as the signature of the stellar rotation period. This value overrules previous suggestions of a significantly shorter stellar rotation period. A light curve inversion of the monitoring data yields an estimation of the flux dimming of a permanent spot filling factor not contributing to the photometric variability, a temperature contrast of the spots of 370 K and persistent active longitudes. The derived surface maps over all five seasons were used to estimate the influence of the star spots on the transmission spectrum of the planet from 400 to 2000 nm. The monitoring data presented here do not support a recent interpretation of a measured transmission spectrum of GJ 1214b as to be caused by bright regions in the stellar photosphere. Instead, we list arguments as to why the effect of dark spots likely dominated over bright regions in the period of our monitoring. Furthermore, our photometry proves an increase in variability over at least four years, indicative for a cyclic activity behavior. The age of GJ 1214 is likely between 6 and 10 Gyr. Conclusions: The long-term photometry allows for a correction of unocculted spots. For an active star such as GJ 1214, there remains a degeneracy between occulted spots and the transit parameters used to build the transmission spectrum. This degeneracy can only be broken by high-precision transit photometry resolving the spot crossing signature in the transit light curve. Based on data obtained with the STELLA robotic telescopes in Tenerife, an AIP facility jointly operated by AIP and IAC.The photometry tables are only available at the CDS via anonymous ftp to http://cdsarc.u-strasbg.fr (http://130.79.128.5) or via http://cdsarc.u-strasbg.fr/viz-bin/qcat?J/A+A/614/A35

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Galaxies morphology and IR photometry II. (Gavazzi+ 1996)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gavazzi, G.; Pierini, D.; Baffa, C.; Lisi, F.; Hunt, L. K.; Randone, I.; Boselli, A.

1996-05-01

We present near-infrared H-band (1.65μm) surface photometry of 297 galaxies (mostly) in the Coma Supercluster obtained with the Arcetri NICMOS3 camera, ARNICA, mounted on the Gornergrat Infrared Telescope. Magnitudes and diameters within the 21.5mag/arcsec2 isophote, concentration indices, and total H magnitudes are derived. Combining these observations with those obtained similarly using the Calar Alto telescopes (Paper I, ) we find a strong positive correlation between the near-infrared concentration index and the galaxy H-band luminosity, and we analyze the consequent dependence of near-infrared growth-curves on H-band luminosity. For a description of the H band photometric system, see e.g. (2 data files).

1.65μm (H-band) surface photometry of galaxies. II. Observations of 297 galaxies with the TIRGO 1.5m telescope.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gavazzi, G.; Pierini, D.; Baffa, C.; Lisi, F.; Hunt, L. K.; Randone, I.; Boselli, A.

1996-12-01

We present near-infrared H-band (1.65μm) surface photometry of 297 galaxies (mostly) in the Coma Supercluster obtained with the Arcetri NICMOS3 camera, ARNICA, mounted on the Gornergrat Infrared Telescope. Magnitudes and diameters within the 21.5mag/arcsec^2^ isophote, concentration indices, and total H magnitudes are derived. Combining these observations with those obtained similarly using the Calar Alto telescopes (Paper I, 1996A&AS..120..489G) we find a strong positive correlation between the near-infrared concentration index and the galaxy H-band luminosity, and we analyze the consequent dependence of near-infrared growth-curves on H-band luminosity.

Rotational Modulation and Activity Cycles at Rotational Extremes: 25 yrs of NURO Photometry for HII 1883

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Milingo, Jackie; Saar, Steven; Marschall, Laurence

2018-01-01

We present a 25 yr compilation of V-band differential photometry for the Pleiades K dwarf HII 1883 (V660 Tau). HII 1883 has a rotational period of ~ 0.24 d and displays significant rotational modulation due to non-uniform surface brightness or "starspots". Preliminary work yields a cycle period of ~ 9 yrs and rotational shear (ΔP_rot/) considerably less than solar. HII 1883 is one of the fastest rotating single stars with a known cycle. With additional data available we compare newly determined P_cyc and ΔP_rot/ values with those of other stars, putting HII 1883 into the broader context of dynamo properties in single cool dwarfs.

Evaluation of urine culture screening by light-scatter photometry

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hale, D.C.; Thrupp, L.D.; Matsen, J.M.

1981-08-01

Urine screening for bacteriuria by light-scatter photometry (Autobac) was evaluated for accuracy and compared with a colony count by the calibrated loop method. Incubation time, inoculum size, precision, and interference of particulate matter were evaluated in an effort to standardize the screening procedure. Results showed that urines could be accurately screened for Enterobacteriaceae by inoculating a single Autobac cuvette chamber with 0.1 or 0.2 ml of urine and determining the voltage change after four hours. A change of greater than or equal to 0.2 units indicates significant bacteriuria. Decreased accuracy was noted for urines having greater than 10(5) cfu/ml ofmore » Pseudomonas species or gram-positive cocci, possibly because these organisms grow more slowly.« less

Photometry of Polar-Ring Galaxies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Godínez-Martínez, A.; Watson, A. M.; Matthews, L. D.; Sparke, L. S.

2007-10-01

We have obtained photometry in B and R for seven confirmed or probable polar-ring galaxies from the Polar-Ring Catalog of Whitmore et al. (1990). The rings show a range of colors from B - R ≈ 0.6 to B - R ≈ 1.7. The bluest rings have bright H II regions, which are direct evidence for recent star formation. The minimum age of the reddest ring, that in PRC B-20, is somewhat uncertain because of a lack of knowledge of the internal reddening and metallicity, but appears to be at least 1.2 Gyr. As such, this ring is likely to be stable for at least several rotation periods. This ring is an excellent candidate for future studies that might better determine if it is truly old.

BVR Photometry Of An Inverted-spectrum, Flat-spectrum Radio Source With The Rowan 0.4-meter Telescope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guerra, Erick; Diekewicz, A.

2012-01-01

Several galaxies have been selected for an exploratory campaign with 0.4-meter telescope atop Science Hall at Rowan University. These galaxies exhibit inverted radio spectra on the basis of fluxes in the GB6 and VLA FIRST catalogs and have SDSS magnitudes in g-band less than 15.5. The results of BVR photometry of one of these galaxies, CGCG 215-024, are presented. These are the first results from an ongoing campaign to expand the function of the observatory atop Science Hall. Efforts to mitigate bulding vibration and light pollution in future work will be presented. The authors would like to acknowledge Ric and Jean Edelman for their gift that funded the 0.4-meter telescope.

Improvements to photometry. Part 1: Better estimation of derivatives in extinction and transformation equations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Young, Andrew T.

1988-01-01

Atmospheric extinction in wideband photometry is examined both analytically and through numerical simulations. If the derivatives that appear in the Stromgren-King theory are estimated carefully, it appears that wideband measurements can be transformed to outside the atmosphere with errors no greater than a millimagnitude. A numerical analysis approach is used to estimate derivatives of both the stellar and atmospheric extinction spectra, avoiding previous assumptions that the extinction follows a power law. However, it is essential to satify the requirements of the sampling theorem to keep aliasing errors small. Typically, this means that band separations cannot exceed half of the full width at half-peak response. Further work is needed to examine higher order effects, which may well be significant.

Starspots and active regions on IN Com: UBVRI photometry and linear polarization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alekseev, I. Yu.; Kozlova, O. V.

2014-06-01

The activity of the variable star IN Com is considered using the latest multicolor UBVRI photometry and linear polarimetric observations carried out during a decade. The photometric variability of the star is fully described using the zonal spottedness model developed at the Crimean Astrophysical Observatory (CrAO). Spotted regions cover up to 22% of the total stellar surface, with the difference in temperatures between the quiet photosphere and the spot umbra being 600 K. The spots are located at middle and low latitudes (40°-55°). The intrinsic broad-band linear polarization of IN Com and its rotational modulation in the U band due to local magnetic fields at the most spotted (active) stellar longitudes were detected for the first time.

CCD photometry of 2060 Chiron in 1985 and 1991

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Marcialis, Robert L.; Buratti, Bonnie J.

1993-01-01

CCD photometry of 2060 Chiron from two apparitions, in January 1985 and January 1991, is reported. No evidence is found for a change in the amplitude of Chiron's lightcurve with ecliptic longitude, as would be expected of an object having a high-obliquity rotational axis. An improved value for Chiron's synodic period is reported: 5.917813 +/- 0.000007 hr. No outbursts larger than one-half of one percent were found during the 1991 observations. Secular (yearly) change is due to the gradual dissipation and resupply of material (mainly dust) throughout the coma, while the impulsive (daily) brightenings are probably due to the sudden release of pockets of entrapped volatiles, such as CO2, CN, or possibly H2O.

Keynote presentation: Looking for Zebras When There Are Only Horses (Abstract)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Conti, D. M.

2018-06-01

(Abstract only) How many times have each of us thought we had made a "scientific discovery" only to realize that we were the victim of our own operational, instrumentation, or processing errors? With amateur astronomers contributing more and more to pro/am collaborations, the quality and credibility of our participation is becoming even more important. This keynote presentation will review some of the common pitfalls in producing research-grade photometry results and will give examples of some "horses" that we thought were really "zebras." In addition, it will present some procedures and new techniques for obtaining higher precision photometry. These will be especially useful in helping amateur astronomers better identify false positives in support of the upcoming TESS exoplanet mission.

Bright end of the color-magnitude relation for cD, E and S0 galaxies

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lugger, P.M.

1979-11-01

Schild and Davis's (Astron. J. 84, 311 (1979)) galaxy photometry for cD's in poor clusters is compared with Sandage's (Astrophys. J. 176, 21(1979)) color-magnitude relation defined by elliptical and S0 galaxies in the Virgo and Coma clusters. The cD galaxies are found to be somewhat bluer on average than galaxies of similar magnitude in the Virgo and Coma sample, consistent with the predictions of the galactic cannibalism model proposed by Hausman and Ostriker (Astrophys. J. 224, 320 (1978)). However, a more uniform selection of galaxy photometry is required before any definitive conclusions regarding the bright end of the color-magnitude relationmore » can be made.« less

Late-Type Membership of the Open Cluster NGC 2232

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Orban, Chris; Patten, Brian

2004-01-01

NGC 2232 is one of the nearest open clusters (approx.360 pc) with an age of approx.25 Myr. This places it in the unique position to study the transition from T Tauri activity to the Zero Age Main Sequence. In order for those studies to begin, late-type members must be identified for the cluster. X-ray observations combined with ground-based photometry and spectroscopy offers the best way to accomplish this goal. We present photometry in the VRI bands, 2MASS near-infrared measurements in the J, H , Ks bands and spectra for the suspected optical counterparts to the X-ray sources in the field of NGC 2232. 46 candidate members were identified through these efforts ranging from F5 to M5.

Radio Monitoring of K2 Flare Star Wolf 359

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Villadsen, Jacqueline; Wofford, Alia; Quintana, Elisa; Barclay, Thomas; Thackeray, Beverly

2018-01-01

Understanding M dwarf activity, including flares and eruptions, is important for characterizing exoplanet habitability. Active M dwarf Wolf 359, a well-known flare star, was in the Kepler K2 Campaign 14 field, with continuous high-cadence optical photometry throughout summer 2017. We have conducted a multi-wavelength observing campaign of this star to characterize the magnetic activity that would impact planets around such a star. I will present multi-band radio observations of this star, covering 250-500 MHz, 1-2 GHz, and 8-12 GHz, during a period with simultaneous optical photometry from K2. The higher frequency observations are sensitive to the population of non-thermal electrons in the stellar magnetosphere, and the low-frequency observations offer the potential to detect stellar ejecta.

Temperature and thermal emissivity of the surface of Neptune's satellite Triton

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nelson, Robert M.; Smythe, William D.; Wallis, Brad D.; Horn, Linda J.; Lane, Arthur L.; Mayo, Marvin J.

1990-01-01

Analysis of the preliminary results from the Voyager mission to the Neptune system has provided the scientific community with several methods by which the temperature of Neptune's satellite Triton may be determined. If the 37.5 K surface temperature reported by several Voyager investigations is correct, then the photometry reported by the imaging experiment on Voyager requires that Triton's surface have a remarkably low emissivity. Such a low emissivity is not required in order to explain the photometry from the photopolarimeter experiment on Voyager. A low emissivity would be inconsistent with Triton having a rough surface at the about 100-micron scale as might be expected given the active renewal processes which appear to dominate Triton's surface.

Applicability of Broad-Band Photometry for Determining the Properties of Stars and Interstellar Extinction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sichevskij, S. G.

2018-01-01

The feasibility of the determination of the physical conditions in star's atmosphere and the parameters of interstellar extinction from broad-band photometric observations in the 300-3000 nm wavelength interval is studied using SDSS and 2MASS data. The photometric accuracy of these surveys is shown to be insufficient for achieving in practice the theoretical possibility of estimating the atmospheric parameters of stars based on ugriz and JHK s photometry exclusively because such determinations result in correlations between the temperature and extinction estimates. The uncertainty of interstellar extinction estimates can be reduced if prior data about the temperature are available. The surveys considered can nevertheless be potentially valuable sources of information about both stellar atmospheric parameters and the interstellar medium.

Structural and spectral studies of sunspots. [umbral core modelling

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wyller, A. A.

1974-01-01

Observations of umbral cores, both by multicolor photometry and by narrow band photometry in the vicinity of the sodium D lines, are described, and evidence is given which supports the validity of many umbral models, each of which describes different aspects of the observed umbral cores. Theoretical studies carried on at the observatory include the following: (1) Zeeman profiles of the sodium D sub 2 line and other lines; (2) turbulent heat conduction, sound waves, and the missing flux in sunspots; (3) chromospheric heating above spots by Alfven waves; (4) magnetic convection in the sun and solar neutrinos; (5) models of starspots on flare stars; (5) starspots on the primaries of contact binary systems; and (6) implications of starspots on red dwarfs.

Ultraviolet photometry from the Orbiting Astronomical Observatory. XXXIII - The symbiotic star AG Pegasi

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gallagher, J. S.; Webbink, R. F.; Holm, A. V.; Anderson, C. M.

1979-01-01

Ultraviolet broadband photometry obtained with the Wisconsin Experiment Package on OAO 2 is presented for the symbiotic binary star AG Peg. The hot component of the binary is found to be a luminous ultraviolet source, with an energy distribution consistent with its WN6 optical spectral type. Total luminosities of 1000 and 17,000 suns are found for the hot star by assuming, respectively, that the giant primary of AG Peg is a normal M3 III star and that it fills its Roche lobe. The eruptive behavior of AG Peg is shown to require the higher luminosity, and the activity in AG Peg is discussed in terms of a very slow novalike nuclear-powered event.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: VI photometry and spectroscopy in h+{chi} Per (Currie+, 2010)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Currie, T.; Hernandez, J.; Irwin, J.; Kenyon, S. J.; Tokarz, S.; Balog, Z.; Bragg, A.; Berlind, P.; Calkins, M.

2010-04-01

Optical VI photometry of h and {chi} Persei were taken with the Mosaic Imager at the 4m Mayall telescope at the Kitt Peak National Observatory on 2006 October 13-16 and 27-30. We acquired low-resolution optical spectroscopy of Two Micron All Sky Survey (2MASS)-detected stars within 1deg2 of the cluster centers. For faint stars, we used the multiobject, fiber-fed spectrograph Hectospec on the 6.5m MMT. Brighter stars were observed with the fiber-fed spectrograph Hydra on the 3.5m WIYN telescope at Kitt Peak National Observatory and single-slit FAST spectrograph on the 1.5m Tillinghast telescope at the Fred Lawrence Whipple Observatory. (4 data files).

Documentation for the machine-readable version of OAO 2 filter photometry of 531 stars of diverse types

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Warren, W. H., Jr.

1982-01-01

A magnetic tape version of the ultraviolet photometry of 531 stars observed with the Wisconsin Experiment Package aboard the Orbiting Astronomical Observatory (OAO 2) is described. The data were obtained with medium band interference filters and were reduced to a uniform magnitude system. They represent a subset of partially reduced data currently on file at the National Space Science Data Center. The document is intended to enable users of the tape file to read and process data without problems or guesswork. For technical details concerning the observations, instrumentation limitations, and interpretation of the data the reference publication should be consulted. This document was designed for distribution with any machine-readable version of the OAO 2 photometric data.

QATS: Quasiperiodic Automated Transit Search

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carter, Joshua A.; Agol, Eric

2017-12-01

QATS detects transiting extrasolar planets in time-series photometry. It relaxes the usual assumption of strictly periodic transits by permitting a variable, but bounded, interval between successive transits.

Lightcurve, Color and Phase Function Photometry of the OSIRIS-REx Target Asteroid (101955) Bennu

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hergenrother, Carl W.; Nolan, Michael C.; Binzel, Richard P.; Cloutis, Edward A.; Barucci, Maria Antonietta; Michel, Patrick; Scheeres, Daniel J.; d'Aubigny, Christian Drouet; Lazzaro, Daniela; Pinilla-Alonso, Noemi; Campins, Humberto; Licandro, Javier; Clark, Beth E.; Rizk, Bashar; Beshore, Edward C.; Lauretta, Dante S.

2013-09-01

The NASA OSIRIS-REx mission will retrieve a sample of the carbonaceous near-Earth Asteroid (101955) Bennu and return it to Earth in 2023. Photometry in the Eight Color Asteroid Survey (ECAS) filter system and Johnson-Cousins V and R filters were conducted during the two most recent apparitions in 2005/2006 and 2011/2012. Lightcurve observations over the nights of September 14-17, 2005 yielded a synodic rotation period of 4.2905 ± 0.0065 h, which is consistent with the results of Nolan et al. (2013). ECAS color measurements made during the same nights confirm the B-type classification of Clark et al. (Clark, B.E., Binzel, R.P., Howell, E.S., Cloutis, E.A., Ockert-Bell, M., Christensen, P., Barucci, M.A., DeMeo, F., Lauretta, D.S., Connolly, H., Soderberg, A., Hergenrother, C., Lim, L., Emery, J., Mueller, M. [2011]. Icarus 216, 462-475). A search for the 0.7 μm hydration feature using the method of Vilas (Vilas, F. [1994]. Icarus 111, 456-467) did not reveal its presence. Photometry was obtained over a range of phase angles from 15° to 96° between 2005 and 2012. The resulting phase function slope of 0.040 magnitudes per degree is consistent with the phase slopes of other low albedo near-Earth asteroids (Belskaya, I.N., Shevchenko, V.G. [2000]. Icarus 147, 94-105).

Photometric redshifts for weak lensing tomography from space: the role of optical and near infrared photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abdalla, F. B.; Amara, A.; Capak, P.; Cypriano, E. S.; Lahav, O.; Rhodes, J.

2008-07-01

We study in detail the photometric redshift requirements needed for tomographic weak gravitational lensing in order to measure accurately the dark energy equation of state. In particular, we examine how ground-based photometry (u, g, r, i, z, y) can be complemented by space-based near-infrared (near-IR) photometry (J, H), e.g. onboard the planned DUNE satellite. Using realistic photometric redshift simulations and an artificial neural network photo-z method we evaluate the figure of merit for the dark energy parameters (w0, wa). We consider a DUNE-like broad optical filter supplemented with ground-based multiband optical data from surveys like the Dark Energy Survey, Pan-STARRS and LSST. We show that the dark energy figure of merit would be improved by a factor of 1.3-1.7 if IR filters are added onboard DUNE. Furthermore we show that with IR data catastrophic photo-z outliers can be removed effectively. There is an interplay between the choice of filters, the magnitude limits and the removal of outliers. We draw attention to the dependence of the results on the galaxy formation scenarios encoded into the mock galaxies, e.g. the galaxy reddening. For example, very deep u-band data could be as effective as the IR. We also find that about 105-106 spectroscopic redshifts are needed for calibration of the full survey.

RETURN OF THE KING: TIME-SERIES PHOTOMETRY OF FO AQUARII’S INITIAL RECOVERY FROM ITS UNPRECEDENTED 2016 LOW STATE

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Littlefield, Colin; Garnavich, Peter; Kennedy, Mark R.

In 2016 May, the intermediate polar FO Aqr was detected in a low state for the first time in its observational history. We report time-resolved photometry of the system during its initial recovery from this faint state. Our data, which includes high-speed photometry with cadences of just 2 s, show the existence of very strong periodicities at 22.5 and 11.26 minutes, equivalent to the spin–orbit beat frequency and twice its value, respectively. A pulse at the spin frequency is also present but at a much lower amplitude than is normally observed in the bright state. By comparing our power spectra withmore » theoretical models, we infer that a substantial amount of accretion was stream-fed during our observations, in contrast to the disk-fed accretion that dominates the bright state. In addition, we find that FO Aqr’s rate of recovery has been unusually slow in comparison to rates of recovery seen in other magnetic cataclysmic variables, with an e -folding time of 115 ± 7 days. The recovery also shows irregular variations in the median brightness of as much as 0.2 mag over a 10-day span. Finally, we show that the arrival times of the spin pulses are dependent upon the system’s overall brightness.« less

ISO observations of obscured Asymptotic Giant Branch stars in the Large Magellanic Cloud

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trams, N. R.; van Loon, J. Th.; Waters, L. B. F. M.; Zijlstra, A. A.; Loup, C.; Whitelock, P. A.; Groenewegen, M. A. T.; Blommaert, J. A. D. L.; Siebenmorgen, R.; Heske, A.; Feast, M. W.

1999-06-01

We present ISO photometric and spectroscopic observations of a sample of 57 bright Asymptotic Giant Branch stars and red supergiants in the Large Magellanic Cloud, selected on the basis of IRAS colours indicative of high mass-loss rates. PHOT-P and PHOT-C photometry at 12, 25 and 60 mu m and CAM photometry at 12 mu m are used in combination with quasi-simultaneous ground-based near-IR photometry to construct colour-colour diagrams for all stars in our sample. PHOT-S and CAM-CVF spectra in the 3 to 14 mu m region are presented for 23 stars. From the colour-colour diagrams and the spectra, we establish the chemical types of the dust around 49 stars in this sample. Many stars have carbon-rich dust. The most luminous carbon star in the Magellanic Clouds has also a (minor) oxygen-rich component. OH/IR stars have silicate absorption with emission wings. The unique dataset presented here allows a detailed study of a representative sample of thermal-pulsing AGB stars with well-determined luminosities. This paper is based on observations with the Infrared Space Observatory (ISO). ISO is an ESA project with instruments funded by ESA member states (especially the PI countries: France, Germany, The Netherlands and the United Kingdom) and with the participation of ISAS and NASA.

Scientific Synergy between LSST and Euclid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rhodes, Jason; Nichol, Robert C.; Aubourg, Éric; Bean, Rachel; Boutigny, Dominique; Bremer, Malcolm N.; Capak, Peter; Cardone, Vincenzo; Carry, Benoît; Conselice, Christopher J.; Connolly, Andrew J.; Cuillandre, Jean-Charles; Hatch, N. A.; Helou, George; Hemmati, Shoubaneh; Hildebrandt, Hendrik; Hložek, Renée; Jones, Lynne; Kahn, Steven; Kiessling, Alina; Kitching, Thomas; Lupton, Robert; Mandelbaum, Rachel; Markovic, Katarina; Marshall, Phil; Massey, Richard; Maughan, Ben J.; Melchior, Peter; Mellier, Yannick; Newman, Jeffrey A.; Robertson, Brant; Sauvage, Marc; Schrabback, Tim; Smith, Graham P.; Strauss, Michael A.; Taylor, Andy; Von Der Linden, Anja

2017-12-01

Euclid and the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope (LSST) are poised to dramatically change the astronomy landscape early in the next decade. The combination of high-cadence, deep, wide-field optical photometry from LSST with high-resolution, wide-field optical photometry, and near-infrared photometry and spectroscopy from Euclid will be powerful for addressing a wide range of astrophysical questions. We explore Euclid/LSST synergy, ignoring the political issues associated with data access to focus on the scientific, technical, and financial benefits of coordination. We focus primarily on dark energy cosmology, but also discuss galaxy evolution, transient objects, solar system science, and galaxy cluster studies. We concentrate on synergies that require coordination in cadence or survey overlap, or would benefit from pixel-level co-processing that is beyond the scope of what is currently planned, rather than scientific programs that could be accomplished only at the catalog level without coordination in data processing or survey strategies. We provide two quantitative examples of scientific synergies: the decrease in photo-z errors (benefiting many science cases) when high-resolution Euclid data are used for LSST photo-z determination, and the resulting increase in weak-lensing signal-to-noise ratio from smaller photo-z errors. We briefly discuss other areas of coordination, including high-performance computing resources and calibration data. Finally, we address concerns about the loss of independence and potential cross-checks between the two missions and the potential consequences of not collaborating.

The Carnegie Supernova Project I. Photometry data release of low-redshift stripped-envelope supernovae

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stritzinger, M. D.; Anderson, J. P.; Contreras, C.; Heinrich-Josties, E.; Morrell, N.; Phillips, M. M.; Anais, J.; Boldt, L.; Busta, L.; Burns, C. R.; Campillay, A.; Corco, C.; Castellon, S.; Folatelli, G.; González, C.; Holmbo, S.; Hsiao, E. Y.; Krzeminski, W.; Salgado, F.; Serón, J.; Torres-Robledo, S.; Freedman, W. L.; Hamuy, M.; Krisciunas, K.; Madore, B. F.; Persson, S. E.; Roth, M.; Suntzeff, N. B.; Taddia, F.; Li, W.; Filippenko, A. V.

2018-02-01

The first phase of the Carnegie Supernova Project (CSP-I) was a dedicated supernova follow-up program based at the Las Campanas Observatory that collected science data of young, low-redshift supernovae between 2004 and 2009. Presented in this paper is the CSP-I photometric data release of low-redshift stripped-envelope core-collapse supernovae. The data consist of optical (uBgVri) photometry of 34 objects, with a subset of 26 having near-infrared (YJH) photometry. Twenty objects have optical pre-maximum coverage with a subset of 12 beginning at least five days prior to the epoch of B-band maximum brightness. In the near-infrared, 17 objects have pre-maximum observations with a subset of 14 beginning at least five days prior to the epoch of J-band maximum brightness. Analysis of this photometric data release is presented in companion papers focusing on techniques to estimate host-galaxy extinction and the light-curve and progenitor star properties of the sample. The analysis of an accompanying visual-wavelength spectroscopy sample of 150 spectra will be the subject of a future paper. Based on observations collected at Las Campanas Observatory.Tables 2-8 are only available at the CDS via anonymous ftp to http://cdsarc.u-strasbg.fr (http://130.79.128.5) or via http://cdsarc.u-strasbg.fr/viz-bin/qcat?J/A+A/609/A134

Hot DOGs: The Most Luminous Galaxies Found by WISE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eisenhardt, Peter; Tsai, Chao-Wei; Wu, Jingwen; Griffith, Roger; Yan, Lin; Stern, Daniel; Stanford, Adam; Blain, Andrew; Benford, Dominic; Bridge, Carrie; Assef, Roberto; Petty, Sara

2013-02-01

NASA's Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer (WISE) has achieved its fundamental goal by delivering its all-sky survey at 3.4, 4.6, 12 and 22 (micron) (W1, W2, W3, and W4), reaching sensitivities hundreds of times deeper than IRAS. One of the two primary science objectives for WISE is to identify the most luminous galaxies in the Universe (Ultra-Luminous IR Galaxies, or ULIRGs). We have used WISE photometry to select an all- sky sample of objects which are extremely luminous, and for which Herschel far-IR follow-up observations are underway. The objects are prominent in W3 and W4, but faint or undetected in W1 and W2. Available spectroscopy and far IR photometry for these objects show they typically have redshifts z > 2 and luminosities over 10^13 L_odot, with about 10% exceeding 10^14 L_odot and rivaling the brightest known QSOs. Their dust is more than twice as hot as other IR luminous objects: they are hot dust obscured galaxies or ``hot DOGs," and may represent a new phase in galaxy evolution. We request NOAO time to obtain redshifts and optical and near IR photometry for the all-sky sample of the brightest hot DOGs, all of which are in our Herschel program. With existing and allocated observations, this request should complete the acquisition of these crucial data for this primary WISE science objective.

Hot DOGs: The Most Luminous Galaxies Found by WISE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eisenhardt, Peter; Tsai, Chao-Wei; Wu, Jingwen; Assef, Roberto; Stern, Daniel; Wright, Edward

2013-08-01

NASA's Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer (WISE) has achieved its fundamental goal by delivering an all-sky survey at 3.4, 4.6, 12 and 22 (micron) (W1, W2, W3, and W4), reaching sensitivities hundreds of times deeper than IRAS. One of the two primary science objectives for WISE is to identify the most luminous galaxies in the Universe. We have used WISE photometry to select an all-sky sample of objects which are extremely luminous, and for which Herschel far-IR follow-up observations are 99% complete. The objects are prominent in W3 and W4, but faint or undetected in W1 and W2. The spectroscopy and far IR photometry for these objects show they typically have redshifts z > 2 and luminosities over 10^13 L_⊙, with about 5 - 10% exceeding 10^14 L_⊙ and rivaling the brightest known QSOs. Their dust is more than twice as hot as other IR luminous objects: they are hot dust obscured galaxies or ``hot DOGs," and may represent a new phase in galaxy evolution. Because our 2012B allocation had mixed weather, we request 2013B NOAO time to complete the collection of redshifts and optical and near IR photometry for this all-sky sample of the brightest hot DOGs. With existing and allocated observations, this request should complete the acquisition of these crucial data for this primary WISE science objective.

Orbital period changes in RW CrA, DX Vel and V0646 Cen

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Volkov, I. M.; Chochol, D.; Grygar, J.; Mašek, M.; Juryšek, J.

2017-06-01

We aim to determine the absolute parameters of the components of southern Algol-type binaries with deep eclipses RW CrA, DX Vel, V0646 Cen and interpret their orbital period changes. The data analysis is based on a high quality Walraven photoelectric photometry, obtained in the 1960-70s, our recent CCD photometry, ASAS (Pojmanski, 2002), and Hipparcos (Perryman et al., 1997) photometry of the objects. Their light curves were analyzed using the PHOEBE program with fixed effective temperatures of the primary components, found from disentangling the Walraven (B-U) and (V-B) colour indices. We found the absolute parameters of the components of all three objects. All reliable observed times of minimum light were used to construct and analyze the Eclipse Time Variation (ETV) diagrams. We interpreted the ETV diagrams of the detached binary RW CrA and the semi-detached binary DX Vel by a LIght-Time Effect (LITE), estimated parameters of their orbits and masses of their third bodies. We suggest a long term variation of the inclination angle of both eclipsing binaries, caused by a non-coplanar orientation of their third body orbits. We interpreted the detected orbital period increase in the semi-detached binary V0646 Cen by a mass transfer from the less to more massive component with the rate M⊙ = 6.08×10-9 M⊙/yr.

Isochrone Fitting of Hubble Photometry in UV–VIS–IR Bands

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barker, Hallie; Paust, Nathaniel E. Q.

2018-03-01

We present new isochrone fits to color–magnitude diagrams from Hubble Space Telescope Wide Field Camera 3 and Advanced Camera for Surveys photometry of the globular clusters M13 and M80 in five bands from the ultraviolet to near-infrared. Isochrone fits to the photometry using the Dartmouth Stellar Evolution Program (DSEP), the PAdova and TRieste Stellar Evolution Code (PARSEC), and MESA Isochrones and Stellar Tracks (MIST) are examined to study the isochrone morphology. Additionally, cluster ages, extinctions, and distances are found from the visible-infrared color–magnitude diagrams. We conduct careful qualitative analysis on the inconsistencies of the fits across twelve color combinations of the five observed bands, and find that the (F606W‑F814W) color generally produces very good fits, but that there are large discrepancies when the data is fit using colors including UV bands for all three models. We also find that the best fits in the UV are achieved using MIST isochrones, but that they require metallicities that are lower than the other two models, as well published spectroscopic values. Finally, we directly compare DSEP and PARSEC by performing isochrone-isochrone fitting, and find that, for globular cluster aged populations, similar appearing PARSEC isochrones are on average 1.5 Gyr younger than DSEP isochrones. We find that the two models become less discrepant at lower metallicities.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Differential photometry of the F-subgiant HAT-P-67 (Zhou+, 2017)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, G.; Bakos, G. A.; Hartman, J. D.; Latham, D. W.; Torres, G.; Bhatti, W.; Penev, K.; Buchhave, L.; Kovacs, G.; Bieryla, A.; Quinn, S.; Isaacson, H.; Fulton, B. J.; Falco, E.; Csubry, Z.; Everett, M.; Szklenar, T.; Esquerdo, G.; Berlind, P.; Calkins, M. L.; Beky, B.; Knox, R. P.; Hinz, P.; Horch, E. P.; Hirsch, L.; Howell, S. B.; Noyes, R. W.; Marcy, G.; de Val-Borro, M.; Lazar, J.; Papp, I.; Sari, P.

2018-04-01

The transits of HAT-P-67b were first detected with the HATNet survey (Bakos et al. 2004PASP..116..266B). HATNet employs a network of small, wide field telescopes, located at the Fred Lawrence Whipple Observatory (FLWO) in Arizona and at the Mauna Kea Observatory (MKO) in Hawaii, to photometrically monitor selected 8x8° fields of the sky. A total of 4050 I band observations were taken by HAT-5 and HAT-8 from 2005 January to July, and an additional 4518 observations were obtained in the Cousins R band using HAT-5, HAT-7, and HAT-8 telescopes between 2008 February and August. To better characterize the planetary properties, follow-up photometry of the transits were obtained using the KeplerCam on the FWLO 1.2 m telescope. KeplerCam is a 4Kx4K CCD camera with a pixel scale of 0.672"/pixel at 2x2 pixel binning. The photometry was reduced as per Bakos et al. (2010, J/ApJ/710/1724). A full transit was observed in the Sloan-i band on 2012 May 28, and five partial transits were observed on 2011 April 15, May 19, June 07, and 2013 April 25 in the Sloan-i band, and 2013 May 24 in the Sloan-z band. (1 data file).

The Near-Earth Encounter of Asteroid 308635 (2005 YU55): Thermal IR Observations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lim, Lucy F.; Emery, J. P.; Moskovitz, N. A.; Busch, N. W.; Yang, B.; Granvik, M.

2012-01-01

The near-Earth approach (0.00217 AU, or 0.845 lunar distances) of the C-type asteroid 308635 (2005 YU55) in November 2011 presented a rare opportunity for detailed observations of a low-albedo NEA in this size range. As part of a multi-telescope campaign to measure visible and infrared spectra and photometry, we obtained mid-infrared (approx. 8 to 22 micron) photometry and spectroscopy of 2005 YU55 using Michelle on the Gemini North telescope on UT November 9 and 10,2011. An extensive radar campaign together with optical light-curves established the rotation state of YU55. In addition, the radar imaging resulted in a shape model for the asteroid, detection of numerous boulders on its surface, and a preliminary estimate of its equatorial diameter at 380 +/- 20 m. In a preliminary analysis, applying the radar and lightcurve-derived parameters to a rough-surface thermophysical model fit to the Gemini/Michelle thermal emission photometry results in a thermal inertia range of approximately 500 to 1500 J/sq m/0.5s/K, with the low-thermal-inertia solution corresponding to the small end of the radar size range and vice versa. Updates to these results will be presented and modeling of the thermal contribution to the measured near-infrared spectra from Palomar/Triplespec and IRTF/SpeX will also be discussed.

Application of a Short Intracellular pH Method to Flow Cytometry for Determining Saccharomyces cerevisiae Vitality ▿

PubMed Central

Weigert, Claudia; Steffler, Fabian; Kurz, Tomas; Shellhammer, Thomas H.; Methner, Frank-Jürgen

2009-01-01

The measurement of yeast's intracellular pH (ICP) is a proven method for determining yeast vitality. Vitality describes the condition or health of viable cells as opposed to viability, which defines living versus dead cells. In contrast to fluorescence photometric measurements, which show only average ICP values of a population, flow cytometry allows the presentation of an ICP distribution. By examining six repeated propagations with three separate growth phases (lag, exponential, and stationary), the ICP method previously established for photometry was transferred successfully to flow cytometry by using the pH-dependent fluorescent probe 5,6-carboxyfluorescein. The correlation between the two methods was good (r2 = 0.898, n = 18). With both methods it is possible to track the course of growth phases. Although photometry did not yield significant differences between exponentially and stationary phases (P = 0.433), ICP via flow cytometry did (P = 0.012). Yeast in an exponential phase has a unimodal ICP distribution, reflective of a homogeneous population; however, yeast in a stationary phase displays a broader ICP distribution, and subpopulations could be defined by using the flow cytometry method. In conclusion, flow cytometry yielded specific evidence of the heterogeneity in vitality of a yeast population as measured via ICP. In contrast to photometry, flow cytometry increases information about the yeast population's vitality via a short measurement, which is suitable for routine analysis. PMID:19581482

Watching Stars Grow: The adaptation and creation of instructional material for the acquisition, reduction, and analysis of data using photometry tools at the WestRock Observatory.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

O'Keeffe, Brendon; Johnson, Michael; Murphy Williams, Rosa Nina

2018-06-01

The WestRock observatory at Columbus State University provides laboratory and research opportunities to earth and space science students specializing in astrophysics and planetary geology. Through continuing improvements, the observatory has been expanding the types of research carried out by undergraduates. Photometric measurements are an essential tool for observational research, especially for objects of variable brightness.Using the American Association of Variable Star Observers (AAVSO) database, students choose variable star targets for observation. Students then perform observations to develop the ability to properly record, calibrate, and interpret the data. Results are then submitted to a large database of observations through the AAVSO.Standardized observation procedures will be developed in the form of manuals and instructional videos specific to the equipment housed in the WestRock Observatory. This procedure will be used by students conducting laboratory exercises and undergraduate research projects that utilize photometry. Such hands-on, direct observational experience will help to familiarize the students with observational techniques and contribute to an active dataset, which in turn will prepare them for future research in their field.In addition, this set of procedures and the data resulting from them will be used in the wider outreach programs of the WestRock Observatory, so that students and interested public nationwide can learn about both the process and importance of photometry in astronomical research.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Follow-up photometry of M101 OT2015-1 (Blagorodnova+, 2017)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blagorodnova, N.; Kotak, R.; Polshaw, J.; Kasliwal, M. M.; Cao, Y.; Cody, A. M.; Doran, G. B.; Elias-Rosa, N.; Fraser, M.; Fremling, C.; Gonzalez-Fernandez, C.; Harmanen, J.; Jencson, J.; Kankare, E.; Kudritzki, R.-P.; Kulkarni, S. R.; Magnier, E.; Manulis, I.; Masci, F. J.; Mattila, S.; Nugent, P.; Ochner, P.; Pastorello, A.; Reynolds, T.; Smith, K.; Sollerman, J.; Taddia, F.; Terreran, G.; Tomasella, L.; Turatto, M.; Vreeswijk, P. M.; Wozniak, P.; Zaggia, S.

2017-07-01

The location of M101-OT2015-1 has been serendipitously imaged by numerous telescopes and instruments over the last 15 years (from 2000 to 2015). Our best quality pre-discovery image (seeing of 0.55") is an r-band exposure at -3625 days pre-peak from the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope (CFHT). The historical optical data for M101-OT was retrieved from the CFHT MegaPrime and CFHT12K/Mosaic, using single and combined exposures, Pan-STARRS-1/GPC1 (PS1), Isaac Newton Telescope/Wide Field Camera (INT/WFC), and Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) DR 10 (Ahn+ 2014, see V/147). Unfortunately, there are no HST images covering the location of the source. Post-discovery optical magnitudes were obtained from the reported followup astronomer's telegrams (ATels), Liverpool Telescope (LT), the Nordic Optical Telescope (NOT), and the Palomar P48 and P60 telescopes. The infrared data were retrieved from CFHT/WIRCam, UKIRT/WFCAM, and the Spitzer Infrared Array Camera in 3.6 and 4.5um as part of the SPitzer InfraRed Intensive Transients Survey (SPIRITS) (Kasliwal+, 2017ApJ...839...88K). Details of pre-discovery photometry and post-discovery optical photometry may be found in the Appendices Tables 1 and 2, respectively. We obtained spectra of M101-OT using a range of facilities in 2015 Feb-Jul. (3 data files).

Photoelectric photometry of the RS CVn binary EI Eridani = HD 26337

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hooten, J. T.; Strassmeier, K. G.; Hall, D. S.; Barksdale, W. S., Jr.; Bertoglio, A.

1989-01-01

Differential UBV(RI)sub KC and UBVRI photometry of the RS CVn binary EI Eridani obtained during December 1987 and January 1988 at fourteen different observatories is presented. A combined visual bandpass light curve, corrected for systematic errors of different observatories, utilizes the photometric period of 1,945 days to produce useful results. The analysis shows the visual light curve to have twin maxima, separated by about 0.4 phase, and a full amplitude of approximately 0.06 mag for the period of observation, a smaller amplitude than reported in the past. The decrease in amplitude may be due to a decrease or homogenization of spot coverage. To fit the asymmetrical light curve, a starspot model would have to employ at least two spotted regions separated in longitude.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Optical to NIR spectra of nova V2676 Oph 2012 (Raj+, 2017)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raj, A.; Das, R. K.; Walter, F. M.

2017-09-01

Near-infrared observations were obtained using the 1.2m telescope of Mt.Abu Infrared Observatory from 2012 March 29 to June 18 and the SMARTS/CTIO 1.3m telescope. The SMARTS photometry is available on the SMARTS atlas (Walter+, 2012PASP..124.1057W). Optical spectra were obtained with the Asiago 1.22m telescope + B&C spectrograph. Further low-dispersion spectra and photometry were obtained using the SMARTS 1.5m facilities. We obtained 19 spectra on an irregular cadence and with various sky conditions from 2012 April 5 through 2012 June 24. The target was observed using the COSMOS long slit spectrograph at CTIO on 2015 May 8, some three years after the outburst. (3 data files).

Comparison of in situ stratospheric ozone measurements obtained during the MAP/GLOBUS 1983 campaign

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Aimedieu, P.; Matthews, W. A.; Attmannspacher, W.; Hartmannsgruber, R.; Cisneros, J.; Komhyr, W.; Robbins, D. E.

1987-01-01

Data from five types of in situ ozone sensors flown aboard ballons during the MAP/GLOBUS 1983 campaign were found to agree to within 5 percent uncertainty throughout the middle atmosphere. A description of the individual techniques and the error budget is given in addition to explanations for the discrepancies found at higher and lower altitudes. In comparison to UV photometry values, results from two electrochemical techniques were found to be greater in the lower atmosphere and to be lower in the upper atmosphere. In general, olefin chemiluminescence results were within 8 percent of the UV photometry results. Ozone column contents measured by the indigo colorization technique for two altitude regions of about 6 km height were greater than measurements from other techniques by 52 and 17 percent, respectively.

A Search for Planetary Transits of the Star HD 187123 by Spot Filter CCD Differential Photometry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Castellano, T.; DeVincenzi, D. (Technical Monitor)

2000-01-01

A novel method for performing high precision, time series CCD differential photometry of bright stars using a spot filter, is demonstrated. Results for several nights of observing of the 51 Pegasi b-type planet bearing star HD 187123 are presented. Photometric precision of 0.0015 - 0.0023 magnitudes is achieved. No transits are observed at the epochs predicted from the radial velocity observation. If the planet orbiting HD 187123 at 0.0415 AU is an inflated Jupiter similar in radius to HD 209458b it would have been detected at the greater than 6(sigma), level if the orbital inclination is near 90 degrees and at the greater than 3(sigma), level if the orbital inclination is as small as 82.7 degrees.

Photoelectric photometry of comet Kohoutek (1973f)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kohoutek, L.

1976-01-01

Comet Kohoutek was observed with the 50 cm (f/15) reflecting telescope of the European Southern Observatory, La Silla, Chile, on fourteen nights between January 16 and 30, when the heliocentric and geocentric distances of the comet were r=0.66 - 1.00 A.U. and delta=0.81 - 0.96 A.U., respectively. The 40 inch and 80 inch diaphragms were used for the photometry of the cometary head in the UBV system and with six interference filters. The atmospheric conditions were good but the accuracy of observations was low due to large extinction and twilight. The mean error of one measurement of log F in all but Na 5893 A filters can be estimated at plus or minus 0.02, whereas the accuracy through the Na filter was substantially lower.

Comparison of in situ stratospheric ozone measurements obtained during the MAP/GLOBUS 1983 campaign

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aimedieu, P.; Matthews, W. A.; Attmannspacher, W.; Hartmannsgruber, R.; Cisneros, J.; Komhyr, W.; Robbins, D. E.

1987-05-01

Data from five types of in situ ozone sensors flown aboard ballons during the MAP/GLOBUS 1983 campaign were found to agree to within 5 percent uncertainty throughout the middle atmosphere. A description of the individual techniques and the error budget is given in addition to explanations for the discrepancies found at higher and lower altitudes. In comparison to UV photometry values, results from two electrochemical techniques were found to be greater in the lower atmosphere and to be lower in the upper atmosphere. In general, olefin chemiluminescence results were within 8 percent of the UV photometry results. Ozone column contents measured by the indigo colorization technique for two altitude regions of about 6 km height were greater than measurements from other techniques by 52 and 17 percent, respectively.

Photometry and Classification of Stars around the Reflection Nebula NGC 7023 IN Cepheus. II. Interstellar Extinction and Cloud Distances

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zdanavičius, K.; Zdanavičius, J.; Straižys, V.; Maskoliūnas, M.

Interstellar extinction is investigated in a 1.5 square degree area in the direction of the reflection nebula NGC 7023 at ℓ = 104.1\\degr, b = +14.2\\degr. The study is based on photometric classification and the determination of interstellar extinctions and distances of 480 stars down to V = 16.5 mag from photometry in the Vilnius seven-color system published in Paper I (2008). The investigated area is divided into five smaller subareas with slightly different dependence of the extinction on distance. The distribution of reddened stars is in accordance with the presence of two dust clouds at 282 pc and 715 pc, however in some directions the dust distribution can be continuous or more clouds can be present.

Cometary activity in 2060 Chiron

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Luu, Jane X.; Jewitt, David C.

1990-01-01

Results of a 2-yr (1988-90) investigation of cometary activity in 2060 Chiron based on CCD photometry and spectroscopy are reported. The photometry observations include a new rotational light curve of Chiron, a newly refined rotation period, recent developments of its long-term photometric behavior and surface brightness profiles, a deep image of the coma of Chiron, and narrowband images at wavelengths ranging from 3200 to 6840 A. The spectroscopic data include moderate resolution CCD spectra (10-20 A FWHM). Major results include the detection of impulsive brightening on a time scale of hours, evidence for a secular change in the blue portion of the reflectivity spectrum of the nucleus, no evidence for Rayleigh scattering in the near ultraviolet, and an upper limit of the column density of CO(+) ions in the coma.

The 2060 Chiron: CCD photometry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bus, Schelte J.; Bowell, Edward; Harris, Alan W.

1987-01-01

R-band CCD photometry of 2060 was carried out on nine nights in Nov. and Dec. 1986. The rotation period is 5.9181 + or - 0.0003 hr and the peak to peak lightcurve amplitude is 0.088 + or - 0.0003 mag. Photometric parameters are H sub R = 6.24 + or - 0.02 mag and G sub R = + or - 0.15, though formal errors may not be realistic. The lightcurve has two pairs of extrema, but its asymmetry, as evidenced by the presence of significant odd Fourier harmonics, suggests macroscopic surface irregularities and/or the presence of some large scale albedo variegation. The observational rms residual is + or - 0.015 mag. On time scales from minutes to days there is no evidence for nonperiodic (cometary) brightness changes at the level of a few millimagnitudes.

VI photometry of the galactic cluster Berkeley 66

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guarnieri, M. D.; Carraro, G.

1997-03-01

A colour magnitude diagram (CMD) extending to V ~= 19 mag is given for 444 stars in the region of the galactic cluster Berkeley 66. The V and I photometry of a nearby field is also reported. This object appears very faint, highly contaminated by foreground stars and very reddened. The apparent distance modulus (m-M) and the colour excess E_{V-I} are guessed to be 17.5 and 1.1, respectively, with an uncertainty of at least 30%. Adopting these values the comparison of the CMD with theoretical isochrones from the Padova group provides an age around 1.0 Gyr. Based on observations carried out at Pino Torinese Observatory, Torino, Italy. Table 2 is available only in electronic form at the CDS via anonymous ftp 130.79.128.5.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Da Rio, Nicola; Robberto, Massimo, E-mail: ndario@rssd.esa.int

We present the Tool for Astrophysical Data Analysis (TA-DA), a new software aimed to greatly simplify and improve the analysis of stellar photometric data in comparison with theoretical models, and allow the derivation of stellar parameters from multi-band photometry. Its flexibility allows one to address a number of such problems: from the interpolation of stellar models, or sets of stellar physical parameters in general, to the computation of synthetic photometry in arbitrary filters or units; from the analysis of observed color-magnitude diagrams to a Bayesian derivation of stellar parameters (and extinction) based on multi-band data. TA-DA is available as amore » pre-compiled Interactive Data Language widget-based application; its graphical user interface makes it considerably user-friendly. In this paper, we describe the software and its functionalities.« less

Worldwide photometry and lightcurve observations of 16 Psyche during the 1975-1976 apparition

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tedesco, E. F.; Taylor, R. C.; Drummond, J.; Harwood, D.; Nickoloff, I.; Scaltriti, F.; Zappala, V.

1983-01-01

Twenty-six lightcurves of Psyche are presented together with UBV photometry and phase functions from 1975 and 1976. Combining photometric data from this opposition with those from previous apparitions resulted in a mean phase coefficient in V of 0.026 + or - 0.002 mag/deg. No significant phase-dependent variation in the U-B color could be determined from the data; the B-V color, however, displayed a reddening with phase of 0.0010 + or - 0.0004 mag/deg. It is concluded that compositional variations over Psyche's surface are minor, and that Psyche's opposition effect is typical of that for other well-observed asteroids. Psyche's behavior is accounted for if, to the first order, its shape is that of a triaxial ellipsoid with axial ratios near 5:4:3.

QUEST1 Variability Survey. II. Variability Determination Criteria and 200k Light Curve Catalog

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rengstorf, A. W.; Mufson, S. L.; Andrews, P.; Honeycutt, R. K.; Vivas, A. K.; Abad, C.; Adams, B.; Bailyn, C.; Baltay, C.; Bongiovanni, A.; Briceño, C.; Bruzual, G.; Coppi, P.; Della Prugna, F.; Emmet, W.; Ferrín, I.; Fuenmayor, F.; Gebhard, M.; Hernández, J.; Magris, G.; Musser, J.; Naranjo, O.; Oemler, A.; Rosenzweig, P.; Sabbey, C. N.; Sánchez, Ge.; Sánchez, Gu.; Schaefer, B.; Schenner, H.; Sinnott, J.; Snyder, J. A.; Sofia, S.; Stock, J.; van Altena, W.

2004-12-01

The QUEST (QUasar Equatorial Survey Team) Phase 1 camera has collected multibandpass photometry on a large strip of high Galactic latitude sky over a period of 26 months. This robust data set has been reduced and nightly catalogs compared to determine the photometric variability of the ensemble objects. Subsequent spectroscopic observations have confirmed a subset of the photometric variables as quasars, as previously reported. This paper reports on the details of the data reduction and analysis pipeline and presents multiple bandpass light curves for 198,213 QUEST1 objects, along with global variability information and matched Sloan photometry. Based on observations obtained at the Llano del Hato National Astronomical Observatory, operated by the Centro de Investigaciones de Astronomía for the Ministerio de Ciencia y Tecnologia of Venezuela.

The architecture of the hierarchical triple star KOI 928 from eclipse timing variations seen in Kepler photometry

DOE PAGES

Steffen, J. H.; Quinn, S. N.; Borucki, W. J.; ...

2011-10-01

We present a hierarchical triple star system (KIC 9140402) where a low mass eclipsing binary orbits a more massive third star. The orbital period of the binary (4.98829 Days) is determined by the eclipse times seen in photometry from NASA's Kepler spacecraft. The periodically changing tidal field, due to the eccentric orbit of the binary about the tertiary, causes a change in the orbital period of the binary. The resulting eclipse timing variations provide insight into the dynamics and architecture of this system and allow the inference of the total mass of the binary (0.424±0.017M circle-dot) and the orbital parametersmore » of the binary about the central star.« less

How anomalous is the interstellar extinction in NGC 3372, the Carina Nebula?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tapia, M.; Roth, M.; Marraco, H.; Ruiz, M. T.

Near-infrared JHKL photometry of more than 200 stars in the open clusters Tr 14, Tr 15, Tr 16, Cr 228, and Cr 232 in the Carina Nebula is presented. By comparing these results with the available visual photometry and spectroscopy, it is found that the intracluster reddening is characterized, except in Tr 15, by a 'normal' extinction law for lambda greater than 0.5 micron, but is highly anomalous and variable in the U and B bands. Provisional two-color visual polarimetry suggests that the wavelength of maximum polarization is similar to that in the general interstellar medium. This behavior may be explained by the presence of intracluster interstellar grains 'processed' by the passage of shock waves, presumably associated with the violent history of Eta Carinae.

Spitzer Photometry of Approximately 1 Million Stars in M31 and 15 Other Galaxies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Khan, Rubab

2017-01-01

We present Spitzer IRAC 3.6-8 micrometer and Multiband Imaging Photometer 24 micrometer point-source catalogs for M31 and 15 other mostly large, star-forming galaxies at distances approximately 3.5-14 Mpc, including M51, M83, M101, and NGC 6946. These catalogs contain approximately 1 million sources including approximately 859,000 in M31 and approximately 116,000 in the other galaxies. They were created following the procedures described in Khan et al. through a combination of pointspread function (PSF) fitting and aperture photometry. These data products constitute a resource to improve our understanding of the IR-bright (3.6-24 micrometer) point-source populations in crowded extragalactic stellar fields and to plan observations with the James Webb Space Telescope.

Developments of Si-PIN detectors for Continuous Spectro-photometry of Black Holes (CSPOB)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bhoumik, Debashis; Mondal, Shyamal; Chakrabarti, S. K.

2008-10-08

The goal of the proposed small-satellite mission named Continuous Spectro-Photometry of Black holes (CSPOB) is to observe a given galactic black hole candidate for several months continuously or almost continuously. In the former case, two identical satellites are required, while one satellite is sufficient if we employ one satellite. Such an observation from 0.5keV to 30keV should answer several questions regarding the spectral and timing properties of accretion processes. In particular, on the origin of the sub-Keplerian component of the accretion flow which is observed in many black hole candidates. We present preliminary results on the development of X-ray detectorsmore » based on Hamamatsu made Si-PIN Photodiodes at our laboratory.« less

SPITZER IRAC PHOTOMETRY FOR TIME SERIES IN CROWDED FIELDS

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Novati, S. Calchi; Beichman, C.; Gould, A.

We develop a new photometry algorithm that is optimized for the Infrared Array Camera (IRAC) Spitzer time series in crowded fields and that is particularly adapted to faint or heavily blended targets. We apply this to the 170 targets from the 2015 Spitzer microlensing campaign and present the results of three variants of this algorithm in an online catalog. We present detailed accounts of the application of this algorithm to two difficult cases, one very faint and the other very crowded. Several of Spitzer's instrumental characteristics that drive the specific features of this algorithm are shared by Kepler and WFIRST,more » implying that these features may prove to be a useful starting point for algorithms designed for microlensing campaigns by these other missions.« less

The dark side of NGC 3109

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jobin, M.; Carignan, C.

1990-09-01

Optical and radio observations of the Magellanic-type spiral galaxy NGC 3109 were carried out to obtain data on the kinematics and distribution of H I. I-band photometry, performed in order to determine the distribution of the old stellar disk population, more representative of the true mass distribution of the disk, is compared with the B-band photometry. H I spectral line imaging shows that the total neutral hydrogen content is 4.9 + or - 1.0 x 10 to the 8th solar masses; the systematic velocity is 406 + or - 2 km/s. The contribution from the dark component is found tomore » dominate at nearly all radii, indicating a breakdown of the disk-halo conspiracy towards the low end of the luminosity function. 29 refs.« less

β Cephei and SPB stars in the Large Magellanic Cloud

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kołaczkowski, Z.; Pigulski, A.; Soszyński, I.; Udalski, A.; Szymański, M.; Kubiak, M.; Żebruń, K.; Pietrzyński, G.; Woźniak, P. R.; Szewczyk, O.; Wyrzykowski, L.; Ogle Team

2004-05-01

This is a progress report of the study of pulsating main-sequence stars in the LMC. Using the OGLE-II photometry supplemented by the MACHO photometry, we find 64 β Cephei stars in the LMC. Their periods are generally much longer than observed in the stars of this type in the Galaxy (the median value is 0.27 d compared with the 0.17 d in the Galaxy). In 20 stars with short periods attributable to the β Cephei-type instability, we also find modes with periods longer than ~0.4d. They are likely low-order g modes, which means that in these stars both kinds of variability, β Cephei and SPB, are observed. We also show examples of the multiperiodic SPB stars in the LMC, the first beyond our Galaxy.

FRAM telescope - monitoring of atmospheric extinction and variable star photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jurysek, J.; Honkova, K.; Masek, M.

2015-02-01

The FRAM (F/(Ph)otometric Robotic Atmospheric Monitor) telescope is a part of the Pierre Auger Observatory (PAO) located near town Malargüe in Argentina. The main task of the FRAM telescope is the continuous night - time monitoring of the atmospheric extinction and its wavelength dependence. The current methodology of the measurement of a atmospheric extinction and for instrumentation properties also allows simultaneous observation of other interesting astronomical targets. The current observations of the FRAM telescope are focused on the photometry of eclipsing binaries, positional refinement of minor bodies of the Solar system and observations of optical counterparts of gamma ray bursts. In this contribution, we briefly describe the main purpose of the FRAM telescope for the PAO and we also present its current astrono mical observing program.

Results of the 2016 Mexican Asteroid Photometry Campaign

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sada, Pedro V.; Olguin, Lorenzo; Saucedo, Julio C.; Loera-Gonzalez, Pablo; Cantu-Sanchez, Laura; Garza, Jaime R.; Ayala-Gomez, Sandra A.; Aviles, Andres; Perez-Tijerina, Eduardo; Navarro-Meza, Samuiel; Silva, J. S.; Reyes-Ruiz, Mauricio; Segura-Sosa, Juan; Lopez-Valdivia, Ricardo; Alvarez-Santana, F.

2017-07-01

We report the results of the 2016 Mexican Asteroid Photometry Campaign. This year observers from seven different research institutions carried out 34 nights of observations at three Mexican observatories. An uncertain, but long, period of 115.108 ± 0.014 h was estimated for 703 Noëmi from sparse data. A nearly complete lightcurve was obtained for 1305 Pongola (P = 8.0585 ± 0.0003 h). Asteroid 2535 Hämeenlinna turned out to be a binary system where the primary exhibits a rotation period of 3.2311 ± 0.0001 h and the secondary shows an orbital period of 21.20 ± 0.004 h. Asteroid 4775 Hansen (P = 3.1186 ± 0.0001 h) was well observed and showed variations of its lightcurve between two sets of observations separated by about six weeks.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: WOCS. LXVI. Radial velocity survey in M35 (Leiner+, 2015)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leiner, E. M.; Mathieu, R. D.; Gosnell, N. M.; Geller, A. M.

2015-09-01

In this second paper (see also Geller et al. 2010, cat. J/AJ/139/1383) in a series studying the dynamical state of the young (150Myr) open cluster M35 we present an updated version of our complete radial velocity database for the cluster. Our sample is selected to cover the range of the M35 main sequence from 0.8 to 1.6Mȯ out to 30' from cluster center. In the 17 years that we have observed M35, we have gathered ~8000 moderate-precision (σi=0.5km/s) spectra of ~1300 stars. We find 418 of these to be confirmed radial velocity cluster members or likely members. Within our sample of 418 cluster members or likely members, we detect 64 velocity-variable stars. We present orbital solutions for 52 (see Tables 5 and 7) of these 64 systems, in addition to 28 (see Tables 6 and 8) completed orbital solutions for non-member binaries in our field of view. The binaries are drawn from a sample initially derived from the photometry of T. von Hippel taken at KPNO on the Burrell Schmidt telescope. Observations were taken on 1993 November 18-19, and include B and V photometry down to a magnitude of V=17 lying within a 70'*70' field of view. Subsequently, we updated this photometry for 74% of our sources with more precise BV photometry from C. P. Deliyannis (2006, private communication; Sarrazine et al., 2000AAS...197.4107S). This new photometry was taken on the WIYN 0.9m telescope with the S2KB imager and covers a 40'*40' field of view. See Geller et al. 2010 (cat. J/AJ/139/1383) for more information on these two sets of photometry. Beginning in 1997 September, we have obtained spectra for the stars in our sample at the WIYN 3.5m telescope at KPNO using the Hydra Multi-Object Spectrograph (MOS). For a detailed description of our observing and data reduction procedure see Geller et al. 2008 (cat. J/AJ/135/2264). In short, we typically use Hydra's blue sensitive fibers and an echelle grating providing a resolution of R~20000. These spectra are centered on 512.5nm, and span a ~25nm wavelength range, covering several prominent absorption lines including the MgB triplet. We present here all radial velocity measurements of the 1355 stars in our sample to date (see Table4), totaling ~8000 radial velocities (see Table3). M35 was observed in the X-ray by the XMM-Newton orbiting observatory for 8.6ks (02:37:10-05:00:50 UT) on 2008 September 20. The telescope boresight location was 6h8m54s, +24°20'00'' (J2000). The XMM field of view with r=15' does not extend as far from cluster center as the WOCS radial velocity survey (r=30', α=06h09m07.5s, δ=+24°20'28''). We cross-correlate the position of each X-ray source with the WOCS catalog to find potential optical counterparts to the X-ray sources (see Table9). (7 data files).

Accurate PSF-matched photometry for the J-PAS survey

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jimenez-Teja, Yolanda; Benitez, Txitxo; Dupke, Renato a.

2015-08-01

The Javalambre-PAU Astrophysical Survey (J-PAS) is expected to map 8,600 squared-degrees of the sky using 54 narrow and 5 broad band filters. Carried out by a Spanish-Brazilian consortium, the main goal of this survey is to measure Baryon Acoustic Oscillations (BAOs) with photometric redshifts. The expectation is measuring these photometric redshifts with a precision of dz/(1 + z) ~ 0.003 for 100 million galaxies and a few millions of quasars, and reaching an accuracy of dz/(1 + z) ~ 0.01 for other 300 million galaxies. With these numbers, it will be possible to determine w in the Dark Energy (DE) equation of state with an accuracy of < 4%. To achieve such precision and measure the radial BAOs, not only an advanced technical setup but also special data processing tools are required. These tools must be accurate as well as suitable to be implemented in fully automated and computationally efficient algorithms.The factor that most influences the photometric redshift precision is the quality of the photometry. For that reason we have developed a new technique based on the Chebyshev-Fourier bases (CHEFs, Jiménez-Teja & Benítez 2012, ApJ, 745, 150) to obtain a highly precise multicolor photometry without PSF consideration, thus saving a considerable amount of time and circumventing severe problems such as the PSF variability across the images. The CHEFs are a set of mathematical orthonormal bases with different scale and resolution levels, originally designed to fit the surface light distribution of galaxies. They have proved to be able to model any kind of morphology, including spirals, highly elliptical, or irregular galaxies, including isophotal twists and fine substructure. They also fit high signal-to-noise images, lensing arcs and stars with great accuracy. We can calculate optimal, unbiased, total magnitudes directly through these CHEFs models and, thus, colors without needing the PSF.We compare our photometry with widely-used codes such as SExtractor (Bertin & Arnouts 1996, Astron Astrophys Sup, 117, 393) and ColorPro (Coe et al. 2006, AJ, 132, 926), using real data from the COSMOS survey, the HUDF, and the XDF.

Accretion and Magnetic Reconnection in the Pre-Main Sequence Binary DQ Tau as Revealed through High-Cadence Optical Photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tofflemire, Benjamin M.; Mathieu, Robert D.; Ardila, David R.; Akeson, Rachel L.; Ciardi, David R.; Herczeg, Gregory; Johns-Krull, Christopher M.; Vodniza, Alberto

2016-01-01

Protostellar disks are integral to the formation and evolution of low-mass stars and planets. A paradigm for the star-disk interaction has been extensively developed through theory and observation in the case of single stars. Most stars, however, form in binaries or higher order systems where the distribution of disk material and mass flows are more complex. Pre-main sequence (PMS) binary stars can have up to three accretion disks: two circumstellar disks and a circumbinary disk separated by a dynamically cleared gap. Theory suggests that mass may periodically flow in an accretion stream from a circumbinary disk across the gap onto circumstellar disks or stellar surfaces.The archetype for this theory is the eccentric, PMS binary DQ Tau. Moderate-cadence broadband photometry (~10 observations per orbital period) has shown pulsed brightening events near most periastron passages, just as numerical simulations would predict for a binary of similar orbital parameters. While this observed behavior supports the accretion stream theory, it is not exclusive to variable accretion rates. Magnetic reconnection events (flares) during the collision of stellar magnetospheres at periastron (when separated by 8 stellar radii) could produce the same periodic, broadband behavior when observed at a one-day cadence. Further evidence for magnetic activity comes from gyrosynchrotron, radio flares (typical of stellar flares) observed near multiple periastron passages. To reveal the physical mechanism seen in DQ Tau's moderate-cadence observations, we have obtained continuous, moderate-cadence, multi-band photometry over 10 orbital periods (LCOGT 1m network), supplemented with 32 nights of minute-cadence photometry centered on 4 separate periastron passages (WIYN 0.9m; APO ARCSAT). With detailed lightcurve morphologies we distinguish between the gradual rise and fall on multi-day time-scales predicted by the accretion stream theory and the hour time-scale, rapid-rise and exponential-decay typical of flares. While both are present, accretion dominates the observed variability providing evidence for the accretion stream theory and detailed mass accretion rates for comparison with numerical simulations.

ISO Accreditation | Photovoltaic Research | NREL

Science.gov Websites

irradiance range is about 0.01-sun to several suns. A device is linear if the current measured with both , "Spectroradiometric Sun Photometry," Journal of Atmospheric and Oceanic Technology 17

Modern Observational Techniques for Comets

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brandt, J. C. (Editor); Greenberg, J. M. (Editor); Donn, B. (Editor); Rahe, J. (Editor)

1981-01-01

Techniques are discussed in the following areas: astrometry, photometry, infrared observations, radio observations, spectroscopy, imaging of coma and tail, image processing of observation. The determination of the chemical composition and physical structure of comets is highlighted.

Primary Reference Cell Calibration | Photovoltaic Research | NREL

Science.gov Websites

0.01-sun to several suns. A device is linear if the current measured with both lamps illuminating the , "Spectroradiometric Sun Photometry," Journal of Atmospheric and Oceanic Technology 17, 1171

Seismic evidence for non-synchronization in two close sdb+dM binaries from Kepler photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pablo, Herbert; Kawaler, Steven D.; Reed, M. D.; Bloemen, S.; Charpinet, S.; Hu, H.; Telting, J.; Østensen, R. H.; Baran, A. S.; Green, E. M.; Hermes, J. J.; Barclay, T.; O'Toole, S. J.; Mullally, Fergal; Kurtz, D. W.; Christensen-Dalsgaard, J.; Caldwell, Douglas A.; Christiansen, Jessie L.; Kinemuchi, K.

2012-05-01

We report on extended photometry of two pulsating subdwarf B (sdB) stars in close binaries. For both cases, we use rotational splitting of the pulsation frequencies to show that the sdB component rotates much too slowly to be in synchronous rotation. We use a theory of tidal interaction in binary stars to place limits on the mass ratios that are independent of estimates based on the radial velocity curves. The companions have masses below 0.26 M⊙. The pulsation spectra show the signature of high-overtone g-mode pulsation. One star, KIC 11179657, has a clear sequence of g modes with equal period spacings as well as several periodicities that depart from that trend. KIC 02991403 shows a similar sequence, but has many more modes that do not fit the simple pattern.

PHOTOMETRY OF VARIABLE STARS FROM DOME A, ANTARCTICA: RESULTS FROM THE 2010 OBSERVING SEASON

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wang, Lingzhi; Zhu, Zonghong; Macri, Lucas M.

We present results from a season of observations with the Chinese Small Telescope ARray, obtained over 183 days of the 2010 Antarctic winter. We carried out high-cadence time-series aperture photometry of 9125 stars with i ∼< 15.3 mag located in a 23 deg{sup 2} region centered on the south celestial pole. We identified 188 variable stars, including 67 new objects relative to our 2008 observations, thanks to broader synoptic coverage, a deeper magnitude limit, and a larger field of view. We used the photometric data set to derive site statistics from Dome A. Based on two years of observations, wemore » find that extinction due to clouds at this site is less than 0.1 and 0.4 mag during 45% and 75% of the dark time, respectively.« less

Deep and wide photometry of two open clusters NGC 1245 and NGC 2506: dynamical evolution and halo

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, S. H.; Kang, Y.-W.; Ann, H. B.

2013-06-01

We studied the structure of two old open clusters, NGC 1245 and NGC 2506, from a wide and deep VI photometry data acquired using the CFH12K CCD camera at Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope. We devised a new method for assigning cluster membership probability to individual stars using both spatial positions and positions in the colour-magnitude diagram. From analyses of the luminosity functions at several cluster-centric radii and the radial surface density profiles derived from stars with different luminosity ranges, we found that the two clusters are dynamically relaxed to drive significant mass segregation and evaporation of some fraction of low-mass stars. There seems to be a signature of tidal tail in NGC 1245 but the signal is too low to be confirmed.

Searching for intermediate-mass black holes via optical variability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Adler-Levine, Ryan; Moran, Edward C.; Kay, Laura

2018-01-01

A handful of nearby dwarf galaxies with intermediate-mass black holes (IMBHs) in their nuclei display significant optical variability on short timescales. To investigate whether dwarf galaxy AGNs as a class exhibit similar variability, we have monitored a sample of low-mass galaxies that possess spectroscopically confirmed type 1 AGNs. However, because of the variations in seeing, focus, and guiding errors that occur in images taken at different epochs, analyses based on aperture photometry are ineffective. We have thus developed a new method for matching point-spread functions in images that permits use of image subtraction photometry techniques. Applying this method to our photometric data, we have confirmed that several galaxies with IMBHs are indeed variable, which suggests that variability can be used to search for IMBHs in low-mass galaxies whose emission-line properties are ambiguous.

Optical and Near-infrared Study of Nova V2676 Oph 2012

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Raj, A.; Das, R. K.; Walter, F. M., E-mail: ashish.raj@iiap.res.in

2017-02-01

We present optical spectrophotometric and near-infrared (NIR) photometric observations of the nova V2676 Oph covering the period from 2012 March 29 through 2015 May 8. The optical spectra and photometry of the nova have been taken from SMARTS and Asiago; the NIR photometry was obtained from SMARTS and Mt. Abu. The spectra were dominated by strong H i lines from the Balmer series, Fe ii, N i, and [O i] lines in the initial days, typical of an Fe ii type nova. The measured FWHM for the H β and H α lines was 800–1200 km s{sup −1}. There wasmore » pronounced dust formation starting 90 days after the outburst. The J − K color was the largest among recent dust-forming novae.« less

The importance of quantitative measurement methods for uveitis: laser flare photometry endorsed in Europe while neglected in Japan where the technology measuring quantitatively intraocular inflammation was developed.

PubMed

Herbort, Carl P; Tugal-Tutkun, Ilknur

2017-06-01

Laser flare photometry (LFP) is an objective and quantitative method to measure intraocular inflammation. The LFP technology was developed in Japan and has been commercially available since 1990. The aim of this work was to review the application of LFP in uveitis practice in Europe compared to Japan where the technology was born. We reviewed PubMed articles published on LFP and uveitis. Although LFP has been largely integrated in routine uveitis practice in Europe, it has been comparatively neglected in Japan and still has not received FDA approval in the USA. As LFP is the only method that provides a precise measure of intraocular inflammation, it should be used as a gold standard in uveitis centres worldwide.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: OGLE-III Galactic bulge microlensing events (Wyrzykowski+, 2015)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wyrzykowski, L.; Rynkiewicz, A. E.; Skowron, J.; Kozlowski, S.; Udalski, A.; Szymanski, M. K.; Kubiak, M.; Soszynski, I.; Pietrzynski, G.; Poleski, R.; Pietrukowicz, P.; Pawlak, M.

2015-02-01

The data used in this work were photometry of 150 million objects toward more than 31deg2 of the Galactic bulge observed in almost 74000 frames, i.e., about 11000 billion data points. We selected 91 fields out of all 177 ever observed by the Optical Gravitational Lensing Experiment (OGLE) Udalski et al. (2008AcA....58...69U) in its third phase from 2001 July until 2009 May, which had at least 250 observations. We use the re-reduced data obtained after the end of OGLE-III. For the final sample of microlensing events, we additionally produced new photometry which took into account the exact position of each event on the difference imaging technique (DIA, Wozniak 2000, J/AcA/50/421) image (see section 2). (4 data files).

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Time minima of EP Aur (Li+, 2015)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, H.-L.; Wei, J.-Y.; Yang, Y.-G.; Li, K.; Zhang, X.-B.

2015-07-01

From 2003 December to 2014 January, the photometry of EP Aur was performed by using the 60-cm telescope and the 85-cm telescope at the Xinglong station (XLs) of National Astronomical Observatories of China (NAOC), and the 1.0-m telescope at the Weihai Observatory (WHO) of Shandong University. The three telescopes were equipped with standard Johnson-Cousins UBVRcIc systems. All observed images were reduced by using the IMREDIMRED and APPHOTAPPHOT packages in IRAF in a standard fashion. The multi-color photometry of EP Aur was carried out on 2013 December 1, 2, 3, and 5, 2009 January 3, 4 and 5 using the 60-cm telescope at XLs. TYC 2420-434-1 and TYC 2420-193-1 were taken as the comparison and check stars respectively. (2 data files).

iSEDfit: Bayesian spectral energy distribution modeling of galaxies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moustakas, John

2017-08-01

iSEDfit uses Bayesian inference to extract the physical properties of galaxies from their observed broadband photometric spectral energy distribution (SED). In its default mode, the inputs to iSEDfit are the measured photometry (fluxes and corresponding inverse variances) and a measurement of the galaxy redshift. Alternatively, iSEDfit can be used to estimate photometric redshifts from the input photometry alone. After the priors have been specified, iSEDfit calculates the marginalized posterior probability distributions for the physical parameters of interest, including the stellar mass, star-formation rate, dust content, star formation history, and stellar metallicity. iSEDfit also optionally computes K-corrections and produces multiple "quality assurance" (QA) plots at each stage of the modeling procedure to aid in the interpretation of the prior parameter choices and subsequent fitting results. The software is distributed as part of the impro IDL suite.

Cometary activity in 2060 Chiron

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Luu, J.X.; Jewitt, D.C.

Results of a 2-yr (1988-90) investigation of cometary activity in 2060 Chiron based on CCD photometry and spectroscopy are reported. The photometry observations include a new rotational light curve of Chiron, a newly refined rotation period, recent developments of its long-term photometric behavior and surface brightness profiles, a deep image of the coma of Chiron, and narrowband images at wavelengths ranging from 3200 to 6840 A. The spectroscopic data include moderate resolution CCD spectra (10-20 A FWHM). Major results include the detection of impulsive brightening on a time scale of hours, evidence for a secular change in the blue portionmore » of the reflectivity spectrum of the nucleus, no evidence for Rayleigh scattering in the near ultraviolet, and an upper limit of the column density of CO(+) ions in the coma. 46 refs.« less

Observational Δν-ρ¯ Relation for δ Sct Stars using Eclipsing Binaries and Space Photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

García Hernández, A.; Martín-Ruiz, S.; Monteiro, Mário J. P. F. G.; Suárez, J. C.; Reese, D. R.; Pascual-Granado, J.; Garrido, R.

2015-10-01

Delta Scuti (δ Sct) stars are intermediate-mass pulsators, whose intrinsic oscillations have been studied for decades. However, modeling their pulsations remains a real theoretical challenge, thereby even hampering the precise determination of global stellar parameters. In this work, we used space photometry observations of eclipsing binaries with a δ Sct component to obtain reliable physical parameters and oscillation frequencies. Using that information, we derived an observational scaling relation between the stellar mean density and a frequency pattern in the oscillation spectrum. This pattern is analogous to the solar-like large separation but in the low order regime. We also show that this relation is independent of the rotation rate. These findings open the possibility of accurately characterizing this type of pulsator and validate the frequency pattern as a new observable for δ Sct stars.

Spectrally Resolved Fiber Photometry for Multi-component Analysis of Brain Circuits.

PubMed

Meng, Chengbo; Zhou, Jingheng; Papaneri, Amy; Peddada, Teja; Xu, Karen; Cui, Guohong

2018-04-25

To achieve simultaneous measurement of multiple cellular events in molecularly defined groups of neurons in vivo, we designed a spectrometer-based fiber photometry system that allows for spectral unmixing of multiple fluorescence signals recorded from deep brain structures in behaving animals. Using green and red Ca 2+ indicators differentially expressed in striatal direct- and indirect-pathway neurons, we were able to simultaneously monitor the neural activity in these two pathways in freely moving animals. We found that the activities were highly synchronized between the direct and indirect pathways within one hemisphere and were desynchronized between the two hemispheres. We further analyzed the relationship between the movement patterns and the magnitude of activation in direct- and indirect-pathway neurons and found that the striatal direct and indirect pathways coordinately control the dynamics and fate of movement. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Data mining in the young open cluster IC2391

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dodd, R. J.

2004-12-01

Large-scale astrometric and photometric data bases have been used to search for and confirm stellar membership of the open cluster IC2391. 125 stars were found that satisfied criteria for membership based on proper motion components and BRI photometry from the United States Naval Observatory B (USNO-B) catalogue and JHK photometry from the Two Micron All Sky Survey (2MASS) catalogue. This listing was compared with others recently published. A distance to the cluster of 147.7 +/- 5.5 pc was found with mean proper motion components, from the Tycho2 catalogue of (-25.04 +/- 1.53 masyr-1+23.19+/-1.23 masyr-1). A revised Trumpler classification of II3r is suggested. Luminosity and mass functions for the candidate stars were constructed and compared with those of field stars and other clusters.

J6 Himalia: New Compositional Evidence and Interpretations for the Origin of Jupiter's Small Satellites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vilas, Faith; Jarvis, K.; Larson, S.; Gaffey, M.

1999-01-01

New narrowband spectrophotometric data of J6 Himalia, some of which are spatially resolved, support its C-type classification. The new spectra confirm the presence of a weak absorption feature centered near 0.7 micron attributed to oxidized iron in phyllosilicates, products of aqueous alteration, which varies in depth on opposite sides of the satellite. Evaluation of older UBV photometry of J6 and J7 Elara compared to UBV photometry of C-class (and subclass) asteroids showing spectral evidence of the 0.7-microns absorption feature suggests that J6 Himalia is an F-class asteroid. We propose that the parent body of the prograde Jovian satellites originated as part of the Nysa asteroid family. Evolutionary models of the Jovian system are used to address the capture and dispersal of the irregular satellites.

The Pulsational Nature of R-Coronae - Light and Radial Velocity Variations during 1990 and 1991

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fernie, J. D.; Lawson, W. A.

1993-12-01

We report photometry and radial velocities of the R Coronae Borealis (RCB) star R CrB, obtained during 1991. We compare these observations with published photometry obtained during 1990 and velocities obtained during 1990 and 1991, and analyse these data using Fourier techniques. In line with the conclusions of earlier analyses, the pulsational nature of R CrB is difficult to quantify, particularly on timescales of longer than a yea The 1990 data are possibly consistent with the presence of a 43-d radial pulsation mode. During 1991 there was some evidence for a periodicity near this value in the radial velocities, but not in the photometric data. Additional data are desirable to investigate the possible presence of one or more periodicities in the light and radial velocity curves.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: u'BVg'r'i'z' light curves of SN 2008ax (Pastorello+, 2008)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pastorello, A.; Kasliwal, M. M.; Crockett, R. M.; Valenti, S.; Arbour, R.; Itagaki, K.; Kaspi, S.; Gal-Yam, A.; Smartt, S. J.; Griffith, R.; Maguire, K.; Ofek, E. O.; Seymour, N.; Stern, D.; Wiethoff, W.

2010-02-01

SN 2008ax is one of the best ever monitored core-collapse SNe, starting with a deep pre-explosion image obtained only 6h prior to the SN discovery of Mostardi et al. (2008CBET.1280....1M). The observational campaign of SN 2008ax started soon after the discovery and covered a period of about 70d. Photometry has been obtained at the 2-m Liverpool Telescope in La Palma (Canary Islands, Spain) and the 60-inch Telescope of the Palomar Observatory. In addition, unfiltered data collected by amateur astronomers have been used in our analysis. These data have been scaled to the Johnson-Bessell V-band or the Sloan r'-band photometry, depending on the sensitivity curves of the CCDs used in these observations. (2 data files).

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Lower main-sequence stars fundamental param. (Casagrande+, 2006)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Casagrande, L.; Portinari, L.; Flynn, C.

2007-06-01

To recover accurate bolometric fluxes and temperatures for the stars, we have obtained accurate and homogeneous Johnson-Cousins BV(RI)C and JHKs photometry for all the 186 stars in our initial sample. For most of the stars in our sample with declination north of DE=-25°, we have made our own photometric observations from April to December 2004. Observations were done from Finland in full remote mode, using the 35-cm telescope piggybacked on the Swedish 60-cm telescope located at La Palma in the Canary Islands. A SBIG charge-coupled device was used through all the observations. Johnson-Cousins BV(RI)C colours were obtained for all stars. Infrared JHKs photometry for the sample has been taken from the Two-Micron All-Sky Survey (2MASS) catalogue. (1 data file).

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Lower main-sequence stars fundamental param. (Casagrande+, 2006)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Casagrande, L.; Portinari, L.; Flynn, C.

2007-06-01

To recover accurate bolometric fluxes and temperatures for the stars, we have obtained accurate and homogeneous Johnson-Cousins BV(RI)C and JHKs photometry for all the 186 stars in our initial sample. For most of the stars in our sample with declination north of DE=-25{deg}, we have made our own photometric observations from April to December 2004. Observations were done from Finland in full remote mode, using the 35-cm telescope piggybacked on the Swedish 60-cm telescope located at La Palma in the Canary Islands. A SBIG charge-coupled device was used through all the observations. Johnson-Cousins BV(RI)C colours were obtained for all stars. Infrared JHKs photometry for the sample has been taken from the Two-Micron All-Sky Survey (2MASS) catalogue. (1 data file).

The NOAO Data Lab PHAT Photometry Database

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Olsen, Knut; Williams, Ben; Fitzpatrick, Michael; PHAT Team

2018-01-01

We present a database containing both the combined photometric object catalog and the single epoch measurements from the Panchromatic Hubble Andromeda Treasury (PHAT). This database is hosted by the NOAO Data Lab (http://datalab.noao.edu), and as such exposes a number of data services to the PHAT photometry, including access through a Table Access Protocol (TAP) service, direct PostgreSQL queries, web-based and programmatic query interfaces, remote storage space for personal database tables and files, and a JupyterHub-based Notebook analysis environment, as well as image access through a Simple Image Access (SIA) service. We show how the Data Lab database and Jupyter Notebook environment allow for straightforward and efficient analyses of PHAT catalog data, including maps of object density, depth, and color, extraction of light curves of variable objects, and proper motion exploration.

Exoplanetary Photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harrington, Joseph

2008-09-01

The Spitzer Space Telescope measured the first photons from exoplanets (Charbonneau et al. 2005, Deming et al. 2005). These secondary eclipses (planet passing behind star) revealed the planet's emitted infrared flux, and under a blackbody assumption provide a brightness temperature in each measured bandpass. Since the initial direct detections, Spitzer has made numerous measurements in the four Infrared Array Camera bandpasses at 3.6, 4.5, 5.7, and 8.0 microns; the Infrared Spectrograph's Blue Peakup Array at 16 microns; and the Multiband Imaging Photometer for Spitzer's 24-micron array. Initial measurements of orbital variation and further photometric study (Harrington et al. 2006, 2007) revealed the extreme day-night variability of some exoplanets, but full orbital phase curves of different planets (Knutson et al. 2007, 2008) demonstrated that not all planets are so variable. This talk will review progress and prospects in exoplanetary photometry.

New Metallicty Calibration for Dwarfs for the RGU-Photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karaali, Salih; Bilir, Selçuk

2002-10-01

We adopted the procedure of Carney to obtain a metallicity calibration for dwarfs for the RGU photometry. For this purpose we selected 76 dwarfs of different metallicities from Carney, and Strobel et al., and evaluated their δ(U-G) ultra-violet excess relative to Hyades by transforming their UBV magnitudes to RGU via metallicity dependent equations of Ak-Güngör. The δ0.6/ΔM normalized factors of Sandage transform Δ(U-G) excess at any G-R to δ=δ1.08, i.e.: the ultra-violet excess at G-R = 1.08 mag, corresponding to B-V = 0.60 mag in the UBV-system. Finally, the (δ, [Fe/H]) couples were fitted by the equation [Fe/H] = 0.11-2.22δ-7.95δ2. This calibration covers the metallicity interval (-2.20, +0.20) dex.

QUEST1 Variability Survey. III. Light Curve Catalog Update

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rengstorf, A. W.; Thompson, D. L.; Mufson, S. L.; Andrews, P.; Honeycutt, R. K.; Vivas, A. K.; Abad, C.; Adams, B.; Bailyn, C.; Baltay, C.; Bongiovanni, A.; Briceño, C.; Bruzual, G.; Coppi, P.; Della Prugna, F.; Emmet, W.; Ferrín, I.; Fuenmayor, F.; Gebhard, M.; Hernández, J.; Magris, G.; Musser, J.; Naranjo, O.; Oemler, A.; Rosenzweig, P.; Sabbey, C. N.; Sánchez, Ge.; Sánchez, Gu.; Schaefer, B.; Schenner, H.; Sinnott, J.; Snyder, J. A.; Sofia, S.; Stock, J.; van Altena, W.

2009-03-01

This paper reports an update to the QUEST1 (QUasar Equatorial Survey Team, Phase 1) Variability Survey (QVS) light curve catalog, which links QVS instrumental magnitude light curves to Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) objects and photometry. In the time since the original QVS catalog release, the overlap between publicly available SDSS data and QVS data has increased by 8% in sky coverage and 16,728 in number of matched objects. The astrometric matching and the treatment of SDSS masks have been refined for the updated catalog. We report on these improvements and present multiple bandpass light curves, global variability information, and matched SDSS photometry for 214,941 QUEST1 objects. Based on observations obtained at the Llano del Hato National Astronomical Observatory, operated by the Centro de Investigaciones de Astronomía for the Ministerio de Ciencia y Tecnologia of Venezuela.

A Refined Search for Pulsations in White Dwarf Companions to Millisecond Pulsars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kilic, Mukremin; Hermes, J. J.; Córsico, A. H.; Kosakowski, Alekzander; Brown, Warren R.; Antoniadis, John; Calcaferro, Leila M.; Gianninas, A.; Althaus, Leandro G.; Green, M. J.

2018-06-01

We present optical high-speed photometry of three millisecond pulsars with low-mass (<0.3 M⊙) white dwarf companions, bringing the total number of such systems with follow-up time-series photometry to five. We confirm the detection of pulsations in one system, the white dwarf companion to PSR J1738+0333, and show that the pulsation frequencies and amplitudes are variable over many months. A full asteroseismic analysis for this star is under-constrained, but the mode periods we observe are consistent with expectations for a M⋆ = 0.16 - 0.19M⊙ white dwarf, as suggested from spectroscopy. We also present the empirical boundaries of the instability strip for low-mass white dwarfs based on the full sample of white dwarfs, and discuss the distinction between pulsating low-mass white dwarfs and subdwarf A/F stars.

Photometric redshifts and clustering of emission line galaxies selected jointly by DES and eBOSS

DOE PAGES

Jouvel, S.; Delubac, T.; Comparat, J.; ...

2017-03-24

We present the results of the first test plates of the extended Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey. This paper focuses on the emission line galaxies (ELG) population targetted from the Dark Energy Survey (DES) photometry. We analyse the success rate, efficiency, redshift distribution, and clustering properties of the targets. From the 9000 spectroscopic redshifts targetted, 4600 have been selected from the DES photometry. The total success rate for redshifts between 0.6 and 1.2 is 71\\% and 68\\% respectively for a bright and faint, on average more distant, samples including redshifts measured from a single strong emission line. We find a meanmore » redshift of 0.8 and 0.87, with 15 and 13\\% of unknown redshifts respectively for the bright and faint samples. In the redshift range 0.6« less

The symbiosis of photometry and radial-velocity measurements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cochran, William D.

1994-01-01

The FRESIP mission is optimized to detect the inner planets of a planetary system. According to the current paradigm of planet formation, these planets will probably be small Earth-sized objects. Ground-based radial-velocity programs now have the sensitivity to detect Jovian-mass planets in orbit around bright solar-type stars. We expect the more massive planets to form in the outer regions of a proto-stellar nebula. These two types of measurements will very nicely complement each other, as they have highest detection probability for very different types of planets. The combination of FRESIP photometry and ground-based spectra will provide independent confirmation of the existence of planetary systems in orbit around other stars. Such detection of both terrestrial and Jovian planets in orbit around the same star is essential to test our understanding of planet formation.

Photometric redshifts and clustering of emission line galaxies selected jointly by DES and eBOSS

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jouvel, S.; Delubac, T.; Comparat, J.

We present the results of the first test plates of the extended Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey. This paper focuses on the emission line galaxies (ELG) population targetted from the Dark Energy Survey (DES) photometry. We analyse the success rate, efficiency, redshift distribution, and clustering properties of the targets. From the 9000 spectroscopic redshifts targetted, 4600 have been selected from the DES photometry. The total success rate for redshifts between 0.6 and 1.2 is 71\\% and 68\\% respectively for a bright and faint, on average more distant, samples including redshifts measured from a single strong emission line. We find a meanmore » redshift of 0.8 and 0.87, with 15 and 13\\% of unknown redshifts respectively for the bright and faint samples. In the redshift range 0.6« less

Infrared photometry of the dwarf nova V2051 Ophiuchi - I. The mass-donor star and the distance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wojcikiewicz, Eduardo; Baptista, Raymundo; Ribeiro, Tiago

2018-04-01

We report the analysis of time series of infrared JHKs photometry of the dwarf nova V2051 Oph in quiescence. We modelled the ellipsoidal variations caused by the distorted mass-donor star to infer its JHKs fluxes. From its infrared colours, we estimate a spectral type of M(8.0 ± 1.5) and an equivalent blackbody temperature of TBB = (2700 ± 270) K. We used the Barnes & Evans relation to infer a photometric parallax distance of dBE = (102 ± 16) pc to the binary. At this short distance, the corresponding accretion disc temperatures in outburst are too low to be explained by the disc-instability model for dwarf nova outbursts, underscoring a previous suggestion that the outbursts of this binary are powered by mass-transfer bursts.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Optical/NIR light curves of SN 2009ib (Takats+, 2015)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takats, K.; Pignata, G.; Pumo, M. L.; Paillas, E.; Zampieri, L.; Elias-Rosa, N.; Benetti, S.; Bufano, F.; Cappellaro, E.; Ergon, M.; Fraser, M.; Hamuy, M.; Inserra, C.; Kankare, E.; Smartt, S. J.; Stritzinger, M. D.; van Dyk, S. D.; Haislip, J. B.; Lacluyze, A. P.; Moore, J. P.; Reichart, D.

2017-11-01

Optical photometry was collected using multiple telescopes with UBVRI and u'g'r'i'z' filters, covering the phases between 13 and 262d after explosion. The basic reduction steps of the images (such as bias-subtraction, overscan-correction, flat-fielding) were carried out using the standard IRAF tasks. The photometric measurement of the SN was performed using the point-spread function (PSF) fitting technique via the SNOOPY package in IRAF. Near-infrared photometry was obtained using the Rapid Eye Mount (REM) telescope in JH bands. Dithered images of the SN field were taken in multiple sequences of five. The object images were dark- and flat-field corrected, combined to create sky images then the sky images were subtracted from the object images. The images were then registered and combined. (3 data files).

Statistics of intensity in adaptive-optics images and their usefulness for detection and photometry of exoplanets.

PubMed

Gladysz, Szymon; Yaitskova, Natalia; Christou, Julian C

2010-11-01

This paper is an introduction to the problem of modeling the probability density function of adaptive-optics speckle. We show that with the modified Rician distribution one cannot describe the statistics of light on axis. A dual solution is proposed: the modified Rician distribution for off-axis speckle and gamma-based distribution for the core of the point spread function. From these two distributions we derive optimal statistical discriminators between real sources and quasi-static speckles. In the second part of the paper the morphological difference between the two probability density functions is used to constrain a one-dimensional, "blind," iterative deconvolution at the position of an exoplanet. Separation of the probability density functions of signal and speckle yields accurate differential photometry in our simulations of the SPHERE planet finder instrument.

Modeling Radial Velocities and Eclipse Photometry of the Kepler Target KIC 4054905: an Oscillating Red Giant in an Eclipsing Binary

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Benbakoura, M.; Gaulme, P.; McKeever, J.; Beck, P. G.; Jackiewicz, J.; García, R. A.

2017-12-01

Asteroseismology is a powerful tool to measure the fundamental properties of stars and probe their interiors. This is particularly efficient for red giants because their modes are well detectable and give information on their deep layers. However, the seismic relations used to infer the mass and radius of a star have been calibrated on the Sun. Therefore, it is crucial to assess their accuracy for red giants which are not perfectly homologous to it. We study eclipsing binaries with a giant component to test their validity. We identified 16 systems for which we intend to compare the dynamical masses and radii obtained by combined photometry and spectroscopy to the values obtained from asteroseismology. In the present work, we illustrate our approach on a system from our sample.

Results of the 2017 Mexican Asteroid Photometry Campaign - Part 1

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sada, Pedro; Loera-Gonzalez, Pablo; Olguin, Lorenzo; Saucedo-Morales, Julio C.; Ayala-Gómez, Sandra A.; Garza, Jaime R.

2018-04-01

We report the results for the first semester of the 2017 Mexican Asteroid Photometry Campaign. Asteroid 1218 Aster (synodic period of 3.1581 ± 0.0002 h and amplitude of 0.35 mag) was well observed and showed slight variations of its lightcurve at the end of the seven week observing window. An uncertain, but long, period of 93.23 ± 0.02 h and amplitude of 0.36 mag were estimated for 2733 Hamina from sparse data. Asteroid 8443 Svecica was also well observed and yielded a period of 20.9905 ± 0.0015 h and amplitude of 0.65 mag. Observations of NEA (143404) 2003 BD44 also resulted in an uncertain and long period of 78.617 ± 0.009 h and amplitude of 0.66 mag with a sparsely covered lightcurve.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Brown dwarfs with spectral type later than T6 (Leggett+, 2017)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leggett, S. K.; Tremblin, P.; Esplin, T. L.; Luhman, K. L.; Morley, C. V.

2018-01-01

We present the new GNIRS and FLAMINGOS-2 spectra and the new NIRI photometry in section 4 (see also table 1). We obtained a 0.95<=λ(um)<=2.5 spectrum using GNIRS at Gemini North on 2016 December 24 and 25 via program GN-2016B-Q-46 for WISEAJ041022.75+150247.9 with R~700. We also obtained near-infrared spectra for WISEJ071322.55-291751.9 and WISEAJ114156.67-332635.5 using FLAMINGOS-2 at Gemini South on 2017 February 3 and 7, via program GS-2017A-FT-2. The JH grism was used giving R~600. We obtained photometry for WISE J085510.83-071442.5 on Gemini North using NIRI at Y and CH4(short) via program GN-2016A-Q-50, and at M' via program GN-2016A-FT-10 between 2015 December and 2016 March. The M' data for a sample of T and Y dwarfs was obtained via program GN-2016B-Q-46 using NIRI on Gemini North. Finally, we obtained H data for the Y1 WISEA J064723.24-623235.4 using FLAMINGOS-2 on Gemini South, which were presented in Leggett+ (2013ApJ...763..130L). We also obtained new photometry from HST/WFC3, ESO VLT HAWK-I and Spitzer/IRAC and WISE archives; see section 5 and tables 2 and 3. (7 data files).

Beyond the Kepler/K2 bright limit: variability in the seven brightest members of the Pleiades

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

White, T. R.; Pope, B. J. S.; Antoci, V.; Pápics, P. I.; Aerts, C.; Gies, D. R.; Gordon, K.; Huber, D.; Schaefer, G. H.; Aigrain, S.; Albrecht, S.; Barclay, T.; Barentsen, G.; Beck, P. G.; Bedding, T. R.; Fredslund Andersen, M.; Grundahl, F.; Howell, S. B.; Ireland, M. J.; Murphy, S. J.; Nielsen, M. B.; Silva Aguirre, V.; Tuthill, P. G.

2017-11-01

The most powerful tests of stellar models come from the brightest stars in the sky, for which complementary techniques, such as astrometry, asteroseismology, spectroscopy and interferometry, can be combined. The K2 mission is providing a unique opportunity to obtain high-precision photometric time series for bright stars along the ecliptic. However, bright targets require a large number of pixels to capture the entirety of the stellar flux, and CCD saturation, as well as restrictions on data storage and bandwidth, limit the number and brightness of stars that can be observed. To overcome this, we have developed a new photometric technique, which we call halo photometry, to observe very bright stars using a limited number of pixels. Halo photometry is simple, fast and does not require extensive pixel allocation, and will allow us to use K2 and other photometric missions, such as TESS, to observe very bright stars for asteroseismology and to search for transiting exoplanets. We apply this method to the seven brightest stars in the Pleiades open cluster. Each star exhibits variability; six of the stars show what are most likely slowly pulsating B-star pulsations, with amplitudes ranging from 20 to 2000 ppm. For the star Maia, we demonstrate the utility of combining K2 photometry with spectroscopy and interferometry to show that it is not a `Maia variable', and to establish that its variability is caused by rotational modulation of a large chemical spot on a 10 d time-scale.

Passive emission colorimetric sensor (PECS) for measuring emission rates of formaldehyde based on an enzymatic reaction and reflectance photometry.

PubMed

Shinohara, Naohide; Kajiwara, Tomohisa; Ohnishi, Masato; Kodama, Kenichi; Yanagisawa, Yukio

2008-06-15

A coin-sized passive emission colorimetric sensor (PECS) based on an enzymatic reaction and a portable reflectance photometry device were developed to determine the emission rates of formaldehyde from building materials and other materials found indoors in only 30 minutes on-site. The color change of the PECS linearly correlated to the concentration of formaldehyde aqueous solutions up to 28 microg/mL. The correlation between the emission rates measured by using the PECS and those measured by using a desiccator method or by using a chamber method was fitted with a linear function and a power function, and the determination coefficients were more than 0.98. The reproducible results indicate that the emission rates could be obtained with the correlation equations from the data measured by using the PECS and the portable reflectance photometry device. Limits of detection (LODs) were 0.051 mg/L for the desiccator method and 3.1 microg/m2/h for the chamber method. Thus, it was confirmed that the emission rates of formaldehyde from the building materials classified as F four-star (< 0.3 mg/L (desiccator method) or < 5.0 microg/m2/h (chamber method)), based on Japanese Industrial Standards (JIS), could be measured with the PECS. The measurement with PECS was confirmed to be precise (RSD < 10%). Other chemicals emitted from indoor materials, such as methanol, ethanol, acetone, toluene, and xylene, interfered little with the measurement of formaldehyde emission rates by using the PECS.

Scientific Synergy between LSST and Euclid

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Rhodes, Jason; Nichol, Robert C.; Aubourg, Éric

We report that Euclid and the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope (LSST) are poised to dramatically change the astronomy landscape early in the next decade. The combination of high-cadence, deep, wide-field optical photometry from LSST with high-resolution, wide-field optical photometry, and near-infrared photometry and spectroscopy from Euclid will be powerful for addressing a wide range of astrophysical questions. We explore Euclid/LSST synergy, ignoring the political issues associated with data access to focus on the scientific, technical, and financial benefits of coordination. We focus primarily on dark energy cosmology, but also discuss galaxy evolution, transient objects, solar system science, and galaxy clustermore » studies. We concentrate on synergies that require coordination in cadence or survey overlap, or would benefit from pixel-level co-processing that is beyond the scope of what is currently planned, rather than scientific programs that could be accomplished only at the catalog level without coordination in data processing or survey strategies. Also, we provide two quantitative examples of scientific synergies: the decrease in photo-z errors (benefiting many science cases) when high-resolution Euclid data are used for LSST photo-z determination, and the resulting increase in weak-lensing signal-to-noise ratio from smaller photo-z errors. We briefly discuss other areas of coordination, including high-performance computing resources and calibration data. Finally, we address concerns about the loss of independence and potential cross-checks between the two missions and the potential consequences of not collaborating.« less

Scientific Synergy between LSST and Euclid

DOE PAGES

Rhodes, Jason; Nichol, Robert C.; Aubourg, Éric; ...

2017-12-07

We report that Euclid and the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope (LSST) are poised to dramatically change the astronomy landscape early in the next decade. The combination of high-cadence, deep, wide-field optical photometry from LSST with high-resolution, wide-field optical photometry, and near-infrared photometry and spectroscopy from Euclid will be powerful for addressing a wide range of astrophysical questions. We explore Euclid/LSST synergy, ignoring the political issues associated with data access to focus on the scientific, technical, and financial benefits of coordination. We focus primarily on dark energy cosmology, but also discuss galaxy evolution, transient objects, solar system science, and galaxy clustermore » studies. We concentrate on synergies that require coordination in cadence or survey overlap, or would benefit from pixel-level co-processing that is beyond the scope of what is currently planned, rather than scientific programs that could be accomplished only at the catalog level without coordination in data processing or survey strategies. Also, we provide two quantitative examples of scientific synergies: the decrease in photo-z errors (benefiting many science cases) when high-resolution Euclid data are used for LSST photo-z determination, and the resulting increase in weak-lensing signal-to-noise ratio from smaller photo-z errors. We briefly discuss other areas of coordination, including high-performance computing resources and calibration data. Finally, we address concerns about the loss of independence and potential cross-checks between the two missions and the potential consequences of not collaborating.« less

Atmospheric Seeing and Transparency Robotic Observatory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cline, J. D.; Castelaz, M. W.

2002-12-01

A robotic 12.7 cm telescope and camera (together called OVIEW) have been designed to do photometry of 50 of the brightest stars in the local sky 24 hours a day. Each star is imaged through a broadband 500 nm filter. Software automatically analyzes the brightness of the star and the stellar seeing disk. The results are published in real-time on a web page. Comparison of stellar brightness with known apparent magnitude is a measure of transparency with instrument resolution of one arcsecond. We will describe the observatory, software, and website. We will also describe other telescopes on the Optical Ridge at the Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute (PARI). On the same pier as OVIEW is a second robotic 12.7 cm telescope and camera that image the sun and moon. The solar and lunar images are published live on the Internet. Also on the Optical Ridge is a robotic 20 cm telescope. This telescope is operated by UNC-Chapel Hill and has been operating on the Optical Ridge for more than 2 years surveying the plane of the Milky Way for binary low mass stars. UNC-Chapel Hill also operates a 25 cm telescope with an IR camera for photometry of gamma ray burst optical afterglows. An additional 25 cm telescope with a new 3.2 megapixel CCD is used for undergraduate research and W UMa binary star photometry. We acknowledge the AAS Small Grant Program for partial support of the solar/lunar telescope.

Photometric brown-dwarf classification. I. A method to identify and accurately classify large samples of brown dwarfs without spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Skrzypek, N.; Warren, S. J.; Faherty, J. K.; Mortlock, D. J.; Burgasser, A. J.; Hewett, P. C.

2015-02-01

Aims: We present a method, named photo-type, to identify and accurately classify L and T dwarfs onto the standard spectral classification system using photometry alone. This enables the creation of large and deep homogeneous samples of these objects efficiently, without the need for spectroscopy. Methods: We created a catalogue of point sources with photometry in 8 bands, ranging from 0.75 to 4.6 μm, selected from an area of 3344 deg2, by combining SDSS, UKIDSS LAS, and WISE data. Sources with 13.0 0.8, were then classified by comparison against template colours of quasars, stars, and brown dwarfs. The L and T templates, spectral types L0 to T8, were created by identifying previously known sources with spectroscopic classifications, and fitting polynomial relations between colour and spectral type. Results: Of the 192 known L and T dwarfs with reliable photometry in the surveyed area and magnitude range, 189 are recovered by our selection and classification method. We have quantified the accuracy of the classification method both externally, with spectroscopy, and internally, by creating synthetic catalogues and accounting for the uncertainties. We find that, brighter than J = 17.5, photo-type classifications are accurate to one spectral sub-type, and are therefore competitive with spectroscopic classifications. The resultant catalogue of 1157 L and T dwarfs will be presented in a companion paper.

Possible detection of a bimodal cloud distribution in the atmosphere of HAT-P-32 A b from multiband photometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tregloan-Reed, J.; Southworth, J.; Mancini, L.; Mollière, P.; Ciceri, S.; Bruni, I.; Ricci, D.; Ayala-Loera, C.; Henning, T.

2018-03-01

We present high-precision photometry of eight separate transit events in the HAT-P-32 planetary system. One transit event was observed simultaneously by two telescopes of which one obtained a simultaneous multiband light curve in three optical bands, giving a total of 11 transit light curves. Due to the filter selection and in conjunction with using the defocused photometry technique, we were able to obtain an extremely high-precision, ground-based transit in the u band (350 nm), with an rms scatter of ≈1 mmag. All 11 transits were modelled using PRISM and GEMC, and the physical properties of the system calculated. We find the mass and radius of the host star to be 1.182 ± 0.041 M⊙ and 1.225 ± 0.015 R⊙, respectively. For the planet, we find a mass of 0.80 ± 0.14 MJup, a radius of 1.807 ± 0.022 RJup, and a density of 0.126 ± 0.023 ρJup. These values are consistent with those found in the literature. We also obtain a new orbital ephemeris for the system T0 = BJD/TDB 2 454 420.447187(96) + 2.15000800(10) × E. We measured the transmission spectrum of HAT-P-32 A b and compared it to theoretical transmission spectra. Our results indicate a bimodal cloud particle distribution consisting of Rayleigh-like haze and grey absorbing cloud particles within the atmosphere of HAT-P-32 A b.

Software Development for Asteroid and Variable Star Research

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sweckard, Teaghen; Clason, Timothy; Kenney, Jessica; Wuerker, Wolfgang; Palser, Sage; Giles, Tucker; Linder, Tyler; Sanchez, Richard

2018-01-01

The process of collecting and analyzing light curves from variable stars and asteroids is almost identical. In 2016 a collaboration was created to develop a simple fundamental way to study both asteroids and variable stars using methods that would allow the process to be repeated by middle school and high school students.Using robotic telescopes at Cerro Tololo (Chile), Yerkes Observatory (US), and Stone Edge Observatory (US) data were collected on RV Del and three asteroids. It was discovered that the only available software program which could be easily installed on lab computers was MPO Canopus. However, after six months it was determined that MPO Canopus was not an acceptable option because of the steep learning curve, lack of documentation and technical support.Therefore, the project decided that the best option was to design our own python based software. Using python and python libraries we developed code that can be used for photometry and can be easily changed to the user's needs. We accomplished this by meeting with our mentor astronomer, Tyler Linder, and in the beginning wrote two different programs, one for asteroids and one for variable stars. In the end, though, we chose to combine codes so that the program would be capable of performing photometry for both moving and static objects.The software performs differential photometry by comparing the magnitude of known reference stars to the object being studied. For asteroids, the image timestamps are used to obtain ephemeris of the asteroid from JPL Horizons automatically.

Galaxies in the Diffuse Baryon Field Approaching Reionization: A Joint Study with JWST, HST, and Large Telescopes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Simcoe, Robert

2017-08-01

Our team is conducting a dedicated survey for emission-line galaxies at 5 < z < 7 in six fields containing the best and brightest z > 6 quasars, using JWST/NIRCAM's slitless grism in a 110 hour GTO allocation. We have acquired deep near-IR spectra of the QSOs, revealing multiple heavy-element absorption systems and probing the HI optical depth within each object's survey volume. These data will provide the first systematic view of the circumgalactic medium at z > 4, allowing us to study early metal enrichment, correlations of the intergalactic HI optical depth with galaxy density, and the environment of the quasar hosts. These fields generally do not have deep multicolor photometry that would facilitate selection of broadband dropout galaxies for future observation with JWST/NIRSPEC. However during long spectroscopic integrations with NIRCAM's long channel we will obtain deep JWST photometry in F115W and F200W, together with F356W for wavelength calibration. Here we request 30 orbits with HST/ACS to acquire deep optical photometry that (together with the JWST IR bands) will constrain SED models and enable dropout selection of fainter objects. For lower redshift objects the rest-UV ACS data will improve estimates of star formation rate and stellar mass. Within a Small-GO program scope we will obtain sensitivity similar to CANDELS-Deep in all six fields, and approximately double the size of our galaxy sample appropriate for JWST/NIRSPEC followup at redshifts approaching the reionization epoch.

Photometric and Structural Properties of NGC 6544: A Combined VVV-Hubble Space Telescope Study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cohen, Roger E.; Mauro, Francesco; Geisler, Doug; Moni Bidin, Christian; Dotter, Aaron; Bonatto, Charles

2014-07-01

We combine archival Hubble Space Telescope imaging with wide-field near-infrared photometry to study the neglected metal-poor Galactic globular cluster NGC 6544. A high spatial resolution map of differential reddening over the inner portion of the cluster is constructed, revealing variations of up to half of the total reddening, and the resulting corrected color-magnitude diagrams reveal a sparse blue horizontal branch and centrally concentrated blue straggler population, verified via relative proper motions. Using the corrected photometry to investigate the cluster distance, reddening, and age via direct comparison to well-calibrated photometry of clusters with similar metallicities, we estimate (m - M)0 = 11.96, E(B - V) = 0.79, and an age coeval with M13 to within the relevant uncertainties. Although our data are insufficient to place tight constraints on the reddening law toward NGC 6544, we find no strong evidence that it is non-standard at optical or near-infrared wavelengths. We also provide near-infrared fiducial sequences extending nearly 2 mag below the cluster main sequence turnoff, generated from a statistically decontaminated sample of cluster stars. Lastly, we redetermine the cluster center and construct a radial number density profile which is well fit by an atypically flat power law with a slope of about 1.7. We discuss this result, together with a flattened main sequence luminosity function and inverted mass function, in the context of mass segregation and tidal stripping via interactions with Milky Way potential.

Determining the Rotation Periods of an Inactive LEO Satellite and the First Korean Space Debris on GEO, KOREASAT 1

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Choi, Jin; Jo, Jung Hyun; Kim, Myung-Jin; Roh, Dong-Goo; Park, Sun-Youp; Lee, Hee-Jae; Park, Maru; Choi, Young-Jun; Yim, Hong-Suh; Bae, Young-Ho; Park, Young-Sik; Cho, Sungki; Moon, Hong-Kyu; Choi, Eun-Jung; Jang, Hyun-Jung; Park, Jang-Hyun

2016-06-01

Inactive space objects are usually rotating and tumbling as a result of internal or external forces. KOREASAT 1 has been inactive since 2005, and its drift trajectory has been monitored with the optical wide-field patrol network (OWL-Net). However, a quantitative analysis of KOREASAT 1 in regard to the attitude evolution has never been performed. Here, two optical tracking systems were used to acquire raw measurements to analyze the rotation period of two inactive satellites. During the optical campaign in 2013, KOREASAT 1 was observed by a 0.6 m class optical telescope operated by the Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute (KASI). The rotation period of KOREASAT 1 was analyzed with the light curves from the photometry results. The rotation periods of the low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite ASTRO-H after break-up were detected by OWL-Net on April 7, 2016. We analyzed the magnitude variation of each satellite by differential photometry and made comparisons with the star catalog. The illumination effect caused by the phase angle between the Sun and the target satellite was corrected with the system tool kit (STK) and two line element (TLE) technique. Finally, we determined the rotation period of two inactive satellites on LEO and geostationary Earth orbit (GEO) with light curves from the photometry. The main rotation periods were determined to be 5.2 sec for ASTRO-H and 74 sec for KOREASAT 1.

ANALYSIS OF KEPLER'S SHORT-CADENCE PHOTOMETRY FOR TrES-2b

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kipping, David; Bakos, Gaspar, E-mail: dkipping@cfa.harvard.edu

2011-05-20

We present an analysis of 18 short-cadence (SC) transit light curves of TrES-2b using quarter 0 (Q0) and quarter 1 (Q1) from the Kepler Mission. The photometry is of unprecedented precision, 237 ppm minute{sup -1}, allowing for the most accurate determination of the transit parameters yet obtained for this system. Global fits of the transit photometry, radial velocities, and known transit times are used to obtain a self-consistent set of refined parameters for this system, including updated stellar and planetary parameters. Special attention is paid to fitting for limb darkening and eccentricity. We place an upper limit on the occultationmore » depth to be <72.9 ppm to 3{sigma} confidence, indicating TrES-2b has the lowest determined geometric albedo for an exoplanet, of A{sub g} < 0.146. We also produce a transit timing analysis using Kepler's SC data and demonstrate exceptional timing precision at the level of a few seconds for each transit event. With 18 fully sampled transits at such high precision, we are able to produce stringent constraints on the presence of perturbing planets, Trojans, and extrasolar moons. We introduce the novel use of control data to identify phasing effects. We also exclude the previously proposed hypotheses of short-period transit time variation and additional transits but find that the hypothesis of long-term inclination change is neither supported nor refuted by our analysis.« less

The impact of Spitzer infrared data on stellar mass estimates - and a revised galaxy stellar mass function at 0 < z < 5

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elsner, F.; Feulner, G.; Hopp, U.

2008-01-01

Aims:We estimate stellar masses of galaxies in the high redshift universe with the intention of determining the influence of newly available Spitzer/IRAC infrared data on the analysis. Based on the results, we probe the mass assembly history of the universe. Methods: We use the GOODS-MUSIC catalog, which provides multiband photometry from the U-filter to the 8 μm Spitzer band for almost 15 000 galaxies with either spectroscopic (for ≈7% of the sample) or photometric redshifts, and apply a standard model fitting technique to estimate stellar masses. We than repeat our calculations with fixed photometric redshifts excluding Spitzer photometry and directly compare the outcomes to look for systematic deviations. Finally we use our results to compute stellar mass functions and mass densities up to redshift z = 5. Results: We find that stellar masses tend to be overestimated on average if further constraining Spitzer data are not included into the analysis. Whilst this trend is small up to intermediate redshifts z ⪉ 2.5 and falls within the typical error in mass, the deviation increases strongly for higher redshifts and reaches a maximum of a factor of three at redshift z ≈ 3.5. Thus, up to intermediate redshifts, results for stellar mass density are in good agreement with values taken from literature calculated without additional Spitzer photometry. At higher redshifts, however, we find a systematic trend towards lower mass densities if Spitzer/IRAC data are included.

The use of heterochromatic flicker photometry to determine macular pigment optical density in a healthy Australian population.

PubMed

Abell, Robin G; Hewitt, Alex W; Andric, Marko; Allen, Penelope L; Verma, Nitin

2014-03-01

To establish the normal macular pigment density (MPOD) in a healthy adult Australian sample using heterochromatic flicker photometry (HFP). Macular pigment density was measured using heterochromatic flicker photometry in a total of 201 subjects ranging in age from 21 to 84 years with healthy macula. Fifty-seven of the healthy subjects also completed a food-frequency dietary questionnaire. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was measured using logMAR, chart and macular morphological profiles were assessed using high-resolution integrated Fourier-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT). The average MPOD value was 0.41 ± 0.20 (range 0.07-0.79). There was no statistically significant difference between values in the left and right eye, with good interocular agreement (0.41 vs 0.40, r = 0.893, p < 0.01). Age significantly predicted MPOD score (R (2) = 0.07, p < 0.05). A subgroup analysis of patients who completed the dietary questionnaire revealed a close correlation between higher diet scores and higher MPOD (r = 0.720 p = 0.031). There was no effect of smoking, gender, or iris colour on MPOD values. There was no significant correlation between BCVA, macular OCT profiles, and MPOD. Given that MPOD values are potentially affected by geographical variation, we have determined a mean MPOD value for healthy subjects in a population south of the equator, providing a reference point for future studies on Caucasian samples.

Macular pigment optical density measured by heterochromatic modulation photometry.

PubMed

Huchzermeyer, Cord; Schlomberg, Juliane; Welge-Lüssen, Ulrich; Berendschot, Tos T J M; Pokorny, Joel; Kremers, Jan

2014-01-01

To psychophysically determine macular pigment optical density (MPOD) employing the heterochromatic modulation photometry (HMP) paradigm by estimating 460 nm absorption at central and peripheral retinal locations. For the HMP measurements, two lights (B: 460 nm and R: 660 nm) were presented in a test field and were modulated in counterphase at medium or high frequencies. The contrasts of the two lights were varied in tandem to determine flicker detection thresholds. Detection thresholds were measured for different R:B modulation ratios. The modulation ratio with minimal sensitivity (maximal threshold) is the point of equiluminance. Measurements were performed in 25 normal subjects (11 male, 14 female; age: 30 ± 11 years, mean ± sd) using an eight channel LED stimulator with Maxwellian view optics. The results were compared with those from two published techniques - one based on heterochromatic flicker photometry (Macular Densitometer) and the other on fundus reflectometry (MPR). We were able to estimate MPOD with HMP using a modified theoretical model that was fitted to the HMP data. The resultant MPODHMP values correlated significantly with the MPODMPR values and with the MPODHFP values obtained at 0.25° and 0.5° retinal eccentricity. HMP is a flicker-based method with measurements taken at a constant mean chromaticity and luminance. The data can be well fit by a model that allows all data points to contribute to the photometric equality estimate. Therefore, we think that HMP may be a useful method for MPOD measurements, in basic and clinical vision experiments.

A Dedicated NEO Follow-up Program for the Southern Hemisphere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

van Altena, W. F.; Bailyn, C. D.; Girard, T. M.; Rabinowitz, D.; Branham, R. L.; Hicks, M.; Lopez, C. E.

2001-11-01

We describe an ongoing program dedicated to the observation of NEOs found by the northern discovery programs and whose tracks carry them into the Southern Hemisphere. We are observing the NEOs, to determine their positions, compute improved orbits and submit them to the Minor Planet Center over the Internet. Alerts of needed observations are monitored on relevant Web pages and e-mail messages from our collaborators at the northern discovery programs. The observations are made at the Cesco Observatory at El Leoncito, Argentina with the 0.5-meter double astrograph and/or at CTIO with the 1.0-meter YALO telescope, depending on the magnitude of the NEO and the photometric requirements for the specific NEO. The double astrograph at El Leoncito observes simultaneous CCD B and V photometry and astrometry for those NEO's brighter than 20, while the YALO observes those brighter than 21.5. YALO also provides simultaneous V and IR photometry and astrometry. All YALO observations are ftp'd to San Juan for astrometric reduction and then a revised orbit is computed from the new and existing observations in Mendoza and a decision is made to retarget our observations if necessary. If so, the El Leoncito and/or YALO observers are notified and provided with an improved ephemeris. The final positions and photometry are then forwarded to the MPC, MPEC and our collaborators. To date, we have reported the positions of over 2000 asteroids, 61 comets and 142 NEOs.

B, V, and R Band Photometry of Trans-Neptunian Objects and Centaur Objects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tegler, S.; Romanishin, W.; Levine, J.; Butler, N.

1996-09-01

We present a progress report on our program at the Steward Observatory 2.3-m Telescope on Kitt Peak, Arizona to carry out B, V, and R band photometry of Trans-Neptunian Objects (TNOs) and Centaur Objects. The goal of our program is to answer the following first order questions: (1) Is there color diversity and hence surface composition diversity among TNOs? (2) What is the mechanism responsible for the diversity among Centaurs (and possibly TNOs)? We present B, V, and R band photometry of two TNOs (1994 TB and 1993 SC) and four Centaurs (1995 GO, 1993 HA2, 5145 Pholus, and 2060 Chiron). We find that 1994 TB, 1993 SC, 1993 HA2, and 5145 Pholus are among the reddest objects in the solar system and 1995 GO and 2060 Chiron are solar in color. In order to determine whether a diversity exists among TNOs and the nature of the mechanism responsible for the diversity among Cenaturs, we present our colors as well as colors in the literature on two diagrams: (1) a B-V vs V-R diagram and (2) a V-R vs semi-major axis diagram. We draw a number of interesting conclusions from these diagrams. However, colors are needed for many more objects before firm conclusions can be drawn. This research is sponsored by the NASA Origins of Solar Systems Program. J. L. and N. B. thank the NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates Program at Northern Arizona University.

Galaxy And Mass Assembly (GAMA): end of survey report and data release 2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liske, J.; Baldry, I. K.; Driver, S. P.; Tuffs, R. J.; Alpaslan, M.; Andrae, E.; Brough, S.; Cluver, M. E.; Grootes, M. W.; Gunawardhana, M. L. P.; Kelvin, L. S.; Loveday, J.; Robotham, A. S. G.; Taylor, E. N.; Bamford, S. P.; Bland-Hawthorn, J.; Brown, M. J. I.; Drinkwater, M. J.; Hopkins, A. M.; Meyer, M. J.; Norberg, P.; Peacock, J. A.; Agius, N. K.; Andrews, S. K.; Bauer, A. E.; Ching, J. H. Y.; Colless, M.; Conselice, C. J.; Croom, S. M.; Davies, L. J. M.; De Propris, R.; Dunne, L.; Eardley, E. M.; Ellis, S.; Foster, C.; Frenk, C. S.; Häußler, B.; Holwerda, B. W.; Howlett, C.; Ibarra, H.; Jarvis, M. J.; Jones, D. H.; Kafle, P. R.; Lacey, C. G.; Lange, R.; Lara-López, M. A.; López-Sánchez, Á. R.; Maddox, S.; Madore, B. F.; McNaught-Roberts, T.; Moffett, A. J.; Nichol, R. C.; Owers, M. S.; Palamara, D.; Penny, S. J.; Phillipps, S.; Pimbblet, K. A.; Popescu, C. C.; Prescott, M.; Proctor, R.; Sadler, E. M.; Sansom, A. E.; Seibert, M.; Sharp, R.; Sutherland, W.; Vázquez-Mata, J. A.; van Kampen, E.; Wilkins, S. M.; Williams, R.; Wright, A. H.

2015-09-01

The Galaxy And Mass Assembly (GAMA) survey is one of the largest contemporary spectroscopic surveys of low redshift galaxies. Covering an area of ˜286 deg2 (split among five survey regions) down to a limiting magnitude of r < 19.8 mag, we have collected spectra and reliable redshifts for 238 000 objects using the AAOmega spectrograph on the Anglo-Australian Telescope. In addition, we have assembled imaging data from a number of independent surveys in order to generate photometry spanning the wavelength range 1 nm-1 m. Here, we report on the recently completed spectroscopic survey and present a series of diagnostics to assess its final state and the quality of the redshift data. We also describe a number of survey aspects and procedures, or updates thereof, including changes to the input catalogue, redshifting and re-redshifting, and the derivation of ultraviolet, optical and near-infrared photometry. Finally, we present the second public release of GAMA data. In this release, we provide input catalogue and targeting information, spectra, redshifts, ultraviolet, optical and near-infrared photometry, single-component Sérsic fits, stellar masses, Hα-derived star formation rates, environment information, and group properties for all galaxies with r < 19.0 mag in two of our survey regions, and for all galaxies with r < 19.4 mag in a third region (72 225 objects in total). The data base serving these data is available at http://www.gama-survey.org/.

The Ultraviolet and Infrared Star Formation Rates of Compact Group Galaxies: An Expanded Sample

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lenkic, Laura; Tzanavaris, Panayiotis; Gallagher, Sarah C.; Desjardins, Tyler D.; Walker, Lisa May; Johnson, Kelsey E.; Fedotov, Konstantin; Charlton, Jane; Cardiff, Ann H.; Durell, Pat R.

2016-01-01

Compact groups of galaxies provide insight into the role of low-mass, dense environments in galaxy evolution because the low velocity dispersions and close proximity of galaxy members result in frequent interactions that take place over extended time-scales. We expand the census of star formation in compact group galaxies by Tzanavaris et al. (2010) and collaborators with Swift UVOT, Spitzer IRAC and MIPS 24 m photometry of a sample of 183 galaxies in 46 compact groups. After correcting luminosities for the contribution from old stellar populations, we estimate the dust-unobscured star formation rate (SFRUV) using the UVOT uvw2 photometry. Similarly, we use the MIPS 24 m photometry to estimate the component of the SFR that is obscured by dust (SFRIR). We find that galaxies which are MIR-active (MIR-red), also have bluer UV colours, higher specific SFRs, and tend to lie in Hi-rich groups, while galaxies that are MIR-inactive (MIR-blue) have redder UV colours, lower specific SFRs, and tend to lie in Hi-poor groups. We find the SFRs to be continuously distributed with a peak at about 1 M yr1, indicating this might be the most common value in compact groups. In contrast, the specific SFR distribution is bimodal, and there is a clear distinction between star-forming and quiescent galaxies. Overall, our results suggest that the specific SFR is the best tracer of gas depletion and galaxy evolution in compact groups.

A First-look Atmospheric Modeling Study of the Young Directly Imaged Planet-mass Companion, ROXs 42Bb

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Currie, Thayne; Burrows, Adam; Daemgen, Sebastian

2014-06-01

We present and analyze JKsL' photometry and our previously published H-band photometry and K-band spectroscopy for ROXs 42Bb, an object Currie et al. first reported as a young directly imaged planet-mass companion. ROXs 42Bb exhibits IR colors redder than field L dwarfs but consistent with other planet-mass companions. From the H2O-2 spectral index, we estimate a spectral type of L0 ± 1; weak detections/non-detections of the CO bandheads, Na I, and Ca I support evidence for a young, low surface gravity object primarily derived from the H2(K) index. ROXs 42Bb's photometry/K-band spectrum are inconsistent with limiting cases of dust-free atmospheres (COND) and marginally inconsistent with the AMES/DUSTY models and the BT-SETTL models. However, ROXS 42Bb data are simultaneously fit by atmosphere models incorporating several micron-sized dust grains entrained in thick clouds, although further modifications are needed to better reproduce the K-band spectral shape. ROXs 42Bb's best-estimated temperature is T eff ~ 1950-2000 K, near the low end of the empirically derived range in Currie et al. For an age of ~1-3 Myr and considering the lifetime of the protostar phase, ROXs 42Bb's luminosity of log(L/L ⊙) ~ -3.07 ± 0.07 implies a mass of 9^{+3}_{-3} MJ , making it one of the lightest planetary-mass objects yet imaged.