Program: GN-2012A-DD-4

Title:Thermal Infrared Observations of SN2011ht -- Peculiar Type IIn or Impostor?
PI:Roberta Humphreys
Co-I(s): Kris Davidson, Jose Prieto, Chris Kochanek, Peter Roming, Kris Stanek

Abstract

Our multi-wavelength observations of SN2011ht have revealed an unusual temporal and spectral evolution with characteristics in common with both Type IIn supernovae and the SN impostors. Its rapid decline in the visual is most likely due to dust formation supported by our recent JHKs photometry . Dust formation in supernovae, including the Type IIn's, however occurs at much later times and more slowly. In this respect SN2011ht is also different. We are requesting Director's Discretionary Time for observations at L' and M' with NIRI to confirm the formation of dust. The infrared observations are necessary to determine its luminosity and energy budget during its decline, the dust properties, and to complete the record of SN2011ht's peculiar post-eruption evolution.

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