Late-time Observations of the Extremely Luminous Supernova 2008es
Abstract
Our proposal aims to obtain late-time observations of the second most luminous supernova (SN) ever observed, SN 2008es. NIR photometry and optical spectroscopy will allow us to further constrain the properties of the subclass of very luminous SNe (vSNe), while also searching for dust formation and measuring properties of the underluminous host galaxy. We see the detailed physical examination of SN 2008es as the prototype for the analysis of vSNe expected to be discovered by new wide-field synoptic optical surveys coming on line soon (e.g., PTF, Pan-STARRS, SkyMapper). With its large aperture, optical and near-infrared instruments, and queue scheduled observing the Gemini-N telescope is the best way to obtain late time observations of these vSNe at high redshift. The extreme luminosity of these SNe is likely powered via a strong interaction between the SN ejecta and circumstellar material, and recent evidence shows that this interaction may give rise to significant dust formation. Such dust can survive long after the SN, and may be a primary source of dust in the early universe.
- Publication:
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NOAO Proposal
- Pub Date:
- February 2009
- Bibcode:
- 2009noao.prop..302M