Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astrophysics
Scientific paper
1999-06-08
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astrophysics
minor changes of text, ApJ accepted
Scientific paper
10.1086/308002
We propose a radial velocity survey with the aim to resolve the current dispute on the LMC lensing: in the pro-macho hypothesis the lenses are halo white dwarfs or machos in general; in the pro-star hypothesis both the lenses and the sources are stars in various observed or hypothesized structures of the Magellanic Clouds and the Galaxy. Star-star lensing should prefer sources at the backside or behind the LMC disc because lensing is most efficient if the source is located a few kpc behind a dense screen of stars, here the thin disc of the LMC. This signature of self-lensing can be looked for by a radial velocity survey since kinematics of the stars at the back can be markedly different from that of the majority of stars in the cold, rapidly rotating disc of the LMC. Detailed simulations of effect together with optimal strategies of carrying out the proposed survey are reported here. Assuming that the existing 30 or so alerted stars in the LMC are truely microlensed stars, their kinematics can test the two lensing scenarios; the confidence level varies with the still very uncertain structure of the LMC. Spectroscopy of the existing sample and future events requires about two or three good-seeing nights per year at a 4m-8m class southern telescope, either during the amplification phase or long after.
No associations
LandOfFree
A Radial Velocity Survey for LMC Microlensed Sources does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with A Radial Velocity Survey for LMC Microlensed Sources, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and A Radial Velocity Survey for LMC Microlensed Sources will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-653691