Bibcode
DOI
Arribas, S.; Mediavilla, E.; Fuensalida, J. J.
Bibliographical reference
Astrophysical Journal Letters v.505, p.L43
Advertised on:
9
1998
Citations
8
Refereed citations
7
Description
We present a new technique for performing two-dimensional
(integral-field) spectroscopy of objects with a large range in
intensity. It is based on the capability of optical fibers to discretize
the intensity distribution at the telescope focal plane. This allows not
only reformatting but also the equalization of fiber output intensities,
matching them to the dynamic range of the detector and reducing the
optical cross talk inside the spectrograph. This technique, which we
have called equalized integral field spectroscopy, permits spectral
information to be obtained as well as accurate relative photometry and
astrometry. Here we present the concept and a practical realization.
Using this technique, we have observed the environment of the K2 V star
HD 167605, for which recent Hubble Space Telescope/Near-Infrared Camera
and Multiobject Spectrometer observations in coronagraphic mode have
revealed the presence of a faint companion. We have also detected this
star, whose spectral type was determined (M4 V), together with its
relative distance ( Delta alpha =+0 ."80 and Delta delta =+0 ."86) and
photometry ( Delta R=3.8+/-0.1 and Delta I=3.1+/-0.1 mag) with respect
to the primary, confirming that these two stars form a binary system.
For the companion we have also found the presence of H alpha in
emission, which indicates that this binary system is relatively young.
The present technique may be of interest for Next Generation Space
Telescope instrumentation.