Search
Text Size:
Smaller Text Normal Text Larger Text

Facebook page

Twitter profile

YouTube channel

P70-003: Optical polarization observations of IXPE targets

PI: Pouya M. Kouch

Multiwavelength polarization, and in particular X-ray polarization, is an important probe of the magnetic field geometry, acceleration physics, and high-energy emission processes of blazar jets. The Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE) was successfully launched on the 9th of December 2021 opening a new window to the Universe through high-energy polarization. Here we propose simultaneous multi-band polarization observations of IXPE blazar targets. The proposed observations will supplement our planned multiwavelength campaign in radio, X-rays, and gamma-rays. Comparison of the millimeter-wave, optical, and X-ray polarization and measurement of the mm–optical–UV–X-ray continuum spectra of the blazars, will provide data needed to determine, for the first time, the mechanism and location of the X-ray emission, as well as test particle acceleration models in blazar jets.


ToO triggers

The program aims to provide contemporaneous optical polarization coverage of IXPE observations. We require triggered multi-band (BVRI) polarimetric observations within a day of the IXPE observations. Time-lags of 1-2 days between the optical and X-ray observations are possible if weather or other telescope constrains prevent quasi-simultaneous observations. Longer lags will, however, hamper the achievement of our scientific objectives. For 4 high variable IXPE sources, we require 2 additional observations within two hours to evaluate potential intra-night variability at the time of the IXPE observations. For the intra-night variability we require only VRI observations. The IXPE observing schedule will be known 2-4 weeks in advance.
Calibrations: Twilight flats + alfosc-calibs

The OB generator will be used to request all ToO observations. Scripts to perform all the requested operations will be automatically created and placed in the directory ~/scripts/70-003/. An email will be sent automatically to the observer, which contains all the information about the requested observations, the names and locations of the scripts, instructions for observing and comments from the creator of the trigger.
To summarise:

Go to the directory
  cd ~/scripts/70-003
List the available scripts
  ls -lrt

and execute the OB generated scripts requested in the trigger email.

Program Tracking
Proposal 70-003
Semester P70: 20241001 - 20250401
Principal Investigator Pouya M. Kouch
Programme Optical polarization observations of IXPE targets
Instrument ALFOSC
Time Allocation 30 obs of 8 min to be ~ simultaneous with IXPE
Total Nights 4h
Type ToO+SoftToO
Notes Override, but should aim for (soft) triggers during Nordic service or Technical nights
Total Time Spent (hh:mm)
Proposal Date Time Type Targets Files Comments Status
Empty table: no tracking data available (yet)

 

The above information is collected from the ToO/Mon reports that have been created by the observer.

Should any of the observations have been carried out using the OB system, you will find additional information HERE

Back to top Last modified: September 17 2024