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CURRENT TEAMS
New Teams Coming Soon!
+ Round 4
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Round 3 - Spitzer Light Curve of Z Cha
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Abstract
Using Spitzer Space Telescope observations of the interacting binary
WZ Sge, we have discovered that the accretion disk is far more complex
than previously thought. Our IRAC channel 2 and 4 time series
observations reveal that the size of the accretion disk is far greater
then currently believed and modeled (based on optical and UV
observations) over the past few decades. Our preliminary findings
suggest that the accretion disk contains a large, cool outer dust ring
likely to extend to far greater radius than currently believed. These
observations have great relevance for accretion disks in general,
those in binary systems as well as in active galaxies. This new
Spitzer/NOAO Research Program for Teachers and Students proposal will
provide observations of the eclipsing dwarf nova Z Cha that will test
and confirm our new findings, as well as provide the basis for
additional classroom and EPO activities related to infrared astronomy,
eclipsing binary stars, and the process of mass transfer/accretion.
Click on any teacher's name to see activities associated with NITARP. |
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Participating Teachers:
Support Scientists:
Dr. Don Hoard
Spitzer Science Center, Caltech, Pasadena, CA
Dr. Steve Howell
National Optical Astronomical Observatory, Tucson, AZ
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