Program: GS-2011B-Q-84

Title:Targeting Southern Hemisphere Objects with T-ReCS
PI:Bernadette Rodgers
Co-I(s): Michelle Edwards, Ruben Diaz, Rachel Mason, Nancy Levenson, James Radomski

Abstract

Given the expectation that T-ReCS will be removed from Gemini South possibly as early as 2012B, we request time to observe a variety of potentially interesting southern mid-IR targets with no existing T-ReCS data to date. Once T-ReCS leaves Gemini South, we will lose a unique and powerful capability to explore southern targets. We propose two specific samples: star-forming galaxies and shells of extremely massive stars. Mid-IR data of the central regions of star-forming or starburst galaxies allow one to pinpoint "knots" of star formation activity and to explore the link between these and the central engines. Mid-IR data of circumstellar shells around massive young stars provides information on the morphology and physics of this apparently common but poorly understood stage in high-mass stellar evolution. In both cases, we target southern objects with existing and complementary multi-wavelength data, including lower spatial resolution Spitzer data. This is a Gemini staff collaboration, with the aim of enhancing the treasure trove of T-ReCS data in the Gemini Science Archive.

Publications using this program's data