ToO Gamma-Ray Burst Counterpart Observations
Abstract
We propose to continue our programme of ToO observations in an effort to understand the nature of the progenitors of GRBs. We request `target-of-opportunity' observation time (override status) to monitor the arcminute sized GRB error boxes of three GRBs as soon as possible after the GRB, and during the next two nights. We request deep B, V, R and I imaging (limiting magnitude ~ 24) of the GRB error box. The data will be inspected immediately, and if an optical transient (OT) is identified we also request longer time scale monitoring. This proposal combines together experts from CGRO/BATSE, Interplanetary Network (Ulysses, NEAR, etc.), RXTE/PCA, RXTE/ASM, SAX/WFC, ROSAT, ASCA and the Huntsville GRB team. The requested observations take full advantage of the queue scheduling capability of WIYN, the match of the CTIO/WIYN imager fields of view to the expected X-ray counterpart error circles, and the compatibility between the required sensitivity and that obtainable with CTIO/WIYN telescopes. In addition, using WIYN should provide the least disruption of the accepted programs of other KPNO users. Results from the counterpart searches will be quickly reported using electronic means (including BACODINE/GCN and, where appropriate, IAUCs).
- Publication:
-
NOAO Proposal
- Pub Date:
- August 1999
- Bibcode:
- 1999noao.prop..159V