Infrared Study of Supernova Ejecta and Dust

Details Infrared Study of Supernova Ejecta and Dust Infrared Study of Supernova Ejecta and Dust

Sep 2004

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2004sptz.prop.3248m&link_type=abstract

Spitzer Proposal ID #3248

Computer Science

Scientific paper

We propose to use IRAC and IRS to gain powerful new insights on the nature of supernova (SN) explosions and test the hypothesis that SNe are major sources of cosmic dust. One of our two aims is to carry out robust tests of SN explosion models through the measurement of fine-structure (FS) lines and, where possible, their evolution. The important molecule, SiO, will also be measured. By comparison with our spectral synthesis models, we shall test the explosion model-sensitive predictions of abundances and their distribution. Most of the FS lines arise from ground state transitions and so, in comparison with optical or near-IR spectra, are much less sensitive to temperature and density uncertainties. However, the FS lines are only accessible in the MIR and the most useful abundance measurements can only be achieved at late times when the ejecta are optically thin. Consequently, ground-based MIR observations at the necessary late epochs are difficult if not impossible for nearly all SNe. Observation with the Spitzer Space Telescope is therefore essential. Our second goal is to test the proposal that core-collapse SNe (CCSNe) are, or have been, the major source of dust in the universe. Direct evidence in support of this is still very sparse. Warm dust emits most strongly in the MIR region, and so is the ideal wavelength range for following the condensation of dust within the ejecta or, in the case of Type IIn SNe, in a cool, dense shell formed at the ejecta/progenitor wind interface. Alternatively, such radiation may arise from IR light echo emission from dust in the progenitor wind. Discrimination between condensing dust and pre-existing circumstellar dust can be achieved by measurement of its MIR spectral energy distribution and evolution. Such measurements can also provide dust mass estimates and give clues about the nature of the grain material. To achieve our two goals, we propose to use IRAC and IRS to observe up to 17 SNe at epochs ranging from about 100 days to 2 years post-explosion.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Infrared Study of Supernova Ejecta and Dust 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 Infrared Study of Supernova Ejecta and Dust, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Infrared Study of Supernova Ejecta and Dust will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1823805