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Gemini e-Newscast #79
January 20, 2016
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Introducing the Science of Galactoseismology
Radio astronomers have previously observed ripples in neutral hydrogen on the outskirts of the Milky Way Galaxy. Now Sukanya Chakrabarti (Rochester Institute of Technology) and collaborators have used Flamingos-2 spectra to hint at their source: a dwarf galaxy identified by its Cepheid stars. The total mass – including dark matter – determines the “ringing” effect that can be observed later (by us now). Future observations of additional stars in various regions (associated with different dwarf galaxy companions of the Milky Way) may provide better measurements of the global dark matter content of the Milky Way. This work was featured at a press conference during the recent American Astronomical Society meeting, and the Gemini website provides more information including animated simulations of such interactions.
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Computer simulation of gas distribution (left) and stars (right) after the Milky Way is perturbed by a dwarf satellite galaxy.
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2016 Large and Long Programs Open for Proposals
Gemini announces the opportunity for 2016 Large and Long Programs. Letters of intent are due February 2, 2016, and full proposals are due March 31, 2016, for observations to begin in semester 2016B. We invite Principal Investigators from the United States, Canada, and Argentina, along with their unrestricted co-investigators, to apply. See the announcement of opportunity and follow the embedded links for complete information.
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New Templates for Fast Turnaround
New templates for Fast Turnaround proposals are posted with the current call for proposals. To facilitate reviews, scientific justification text is now limited to one page, with additional pages allowed for figures, tables and references. The next deadline is January 31, 2016, for observations running from March through May, at either of the Gemini telescopes.
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Kama‘aina Observatory Experience Begins
Maunakea observatories opened their doors to local Hawai‘i residents on Saturday, January 16th, the beginning of monthly public visits through the Kama‘aina Observatory Experience. Gemini was pleased to participate in and lead the first tours, where 24 visitors got a close look at the Gemini North telescope.
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Photo credit: Catherine Toth Fox, Honolulu Magazine.
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