An Examination of Dust Formation and Evolution in the Ejecta of Nova Sagittarii 2015 No. 2
Abstract
We propose to obtain spectroscopic and photometric observations of the most recent bright, dusty, and potentially hydrocarbon rich, classical nova, Nova Sagittarii 2015 No. 2, with FORCAST and FLITECAM. This program will extend our Cycle 3 Target-of-Opportunity observations of this source, which we were fortunate to obtain during the initial dust condensation event. This system is an excellent laboratory for the study of dust growth and destruction processes on relatively short timescales of a few months. Our goals are to: 1) estimate the energy budget of the eruption providing insight into the mass of the underlying white dwarf; 2) determine the abundances of elements in the ejecta, which will help constrain models of thermonuclear runaway and nova outbursts; 3) estimate the dust mass at multiple epochs to determine if dust production is ongoing or if the dust is being destroyed; and 4) determine the composition and mineralogy of the dust, including the relative contribution of aromatic to aliphatic hydrocarbon species. With SOFIA observations, we can compare N Sgr 2015 No. 2 to other dusty novae and gain insight into their impact on the energetics and abundances of the ISM. We can also construct a meaningful interpretation of hydrocarbon and dust grain formation pathways and enhance our understanding of the processes that govern dust destruction and dissemination in these systems.
- Publication:
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SOFIA Proposal
- Pub Date:
- October 2015
- Bibcode:
- 2015sofi.prop..181H
- Keywords:
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- SOFIA 04_0181