DGCE SIG Seminar

Observing Shock Dynamics in a Supernova Remnant Near the ISM Interface with an Integral Field Spectrograph

Speaker

Emily Witt, Johns Hopkins University

Abstract

Supernovae (SN) play a key role in processing matter and energy in the galaxy. This processing begins at the interface between the SN ejecta and the interstellar medium (ISM). The state of the environment under which this interaction occurs determines how the mass distribution of dust changes across shock fronts. This new population of dust then enters the diffuse ISM, impacting the cosmic ecosystem. Observing these processes in shock fronts, probed by far ultraviolet (FUV) emission, requires efficient spectral multiplexing, a capability now made possible in the FUV by sounding rocket experiments such as the Integral Field Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Experiment (INFUSE). INFUSE, the first traditional FUV integral field spectrograph, has detected FUV emission in the shock fronts of the XA region, a well-studied part of the Cygnus Loop supernova remnant across spectral lines that had not previously been measured simultaneously. The proven capability to do integral field spectroscopy in the FUV opens new areas for study, especially of broad, extended objects such as the circumgalactic medium and the ISM. Larger FUV capable missions such as Habitable Worlds Observatory will further expand this capacity.

Seminar Connection

Join Zoom Meeting

News Straight to Your Inbox

Subscribe to your community email news list

We will never share your email address.

Privacy Policy

Sign Up