Observations of Supernovae and Gamma-Ray Bursts as Co-operative Observing Exercises for Advanced Astronomy Classes (Abstract)

Volume 31 number 1 (2003)

Douglas T. Durig

Abstract

(Abstract only) For my advanced astronomy class, Physics 251, many of our laboratory exercises were cooperative assignments where each student contibuted observations and data towards a common goal. Observations of supernovae and gamma-ray burst afterglow candidates were natural targets of opportunity. This past Spring Semester we observed SN 2002ap and GRB020406. We observed the supernova with R and V filters and unfiltered several nights near maximum. We also observed the error region near GRB020406 and found some new, dim, very cool infrared rich stars. The results from these observations will be reported. These targets provided excellent, applied examples of the material being covered in lecture.