From Lauren Chapple
What did you do with the data? Please describe every data reduction or data analysis exercise step by step.
Day one. We were split into two groups. One group worked on the unprocessed peak-up image the other on the raw spectra. We were basically given access to the data by using Leopard, and the IDL Program on the Solaris system. Our group worked on the spectra. We were asked to reduce the information into a spectrograph. By the end of session one we had produced individual graphs. At this point Ranga reviewed the work and indicated that one last step was needed. The step was to combine the high resolution spectra into one complete graph. Ranga would remake the graphs from the raw data and have the spectra ready for us in the morning.
Day two. Only the low resolution spectra was ready for us. Our group, Howard and I, were given an exercise to perform on the data. The problem seemed circular in nature being dependent on the aperture of the telescope, wavelength, and flux. After an hour or so we were partially into it when we realized the results were unusable and not necessary. The data was readily available without our efforts. We were not ask for the results and the work was never referred to by Ranga.
A great deal of my time was spent assisting Harlan in his calculation the blackbody curve, finding the diameter of the galaxy nucleus, and calculating the spectral energy index of the three know points. We also developed a procedure for the students to use the following day for identification of spectral lines. A good deal of time was used searching for a table of spectral line identification. We did not fond one on line. Harlan later found a somewhat complete table in the book we had been given at the November meeting.
That evening Harlan spent time reviewing with me the accomplishments of the day. He is a true leader for the group.
Day three. The students finally had some work they could do. They set about studying the absorption and emission lines in the graphs in an attempt to identify the elements (9-11am). Howard and I were shown how to use SPOT to extract the sky background data and set about building a table of the data. The 11 AM media interview break was followed by lunch. I was working with Harlan on the spectra data after the students went on the trip to Mt. Wilson. We were given several tasks to perform, of which we had to determine the method(s) to accomplish the tasks. Most of which required the development/finding, and use of higher level math formulas. Without Harlan's great background we never would have been successful. In the end Ranga sat with us and reviewed what we were looking at with some possible conclusions that needed further analysis. We also went through our objectives to see where we were in the attainment of our goals.
Overall I understand the approach Ranga took.. We did learn a great deal by trial and error. Ranga was great at coming in after a period of struggling and frustration with the support and confirmation we needed. I am not sure, with the limited amount of time we had, that this made the best use of that time.
What do you plan to do with the data when you return? As part of data reduction or data analysis? Please list all exercises your plan to do.
One of the first steps we need to do is subtract the sky background. Again, we were told how to get the preliminary data but not necessarily how to apply it. We will figure it out. We are also waiting for a final smoothed spectrograph from Ranga. At that point we will be identifying absorption and emission lines, looking for Doppler splits, compare emission flux levels, adjustment of wave lengths for Doppler shifts due to rotation within the region, and other undetermined activities to achieve our goals - per Ranga and Harlan.
