Contributors
Supported by the NSF Partnerships in Astronomy & Astrophysics Research and Education (PAARE) grant
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Description
Poster presented at the National Society of Black Physicists Conference in Houston, TX
This study explores the spectroscopic differences between the dying host star of the NGC 2392 (Eskimo Nebula) and its surrounding planetary nebula using near-infrared spectroscopy.
Observations were conducted at the Perkins Telescope Observatory using the Mimir instrument (a near infrared wide-field imager, spectrometer, and polarimeter). Raw spectral images were obtained by employing a 2-pixel wide slit in HK-Spec observing mode, which utilizes a 1.40 µm long-pass filter in conjunction with the JHK grism. This setup allowed for detailed spectroscopy in the H and K bands of both the host star and the planetary nebula.
Results indicate the detection of hydrogen transition levels in both the host star and the nebula. However, the planetary nebula also exhibits significant amounts of helium (He I), distinguishing its composition from that of the host star. These findings provide key insights into the evolution of dying stars and the distinct characteristics of the gas ejected from them during the late stages of stellar life.
The study contributes to a better understanding of the physical processes involved in the formation of planetary nebulae and their chemical differentiation from their progenitor stars.
Format
PNG
Keywords
Eskimo Nebula, NGC 2392, planetary nebula, near-infrared spectroscopy, Perkins Telescope Observatory, Mimir instrument, H and K bands, hydrogen transitions, helium detection, stellar evolution, planetary nebula formation, chemical differentiation, progenitor stars