Abstract: The Crab nebula is the remnant of a supernova, which was observed in 1054, by Chinese astronomers. The central neutron star is rotating rapidly, giving rise to pulsations at 0.033-second intervals at radio, infrared, optica, X-ray and gamma-ray wavelengths. It is losing energy in the form of energetic electrons, causing it to slow down. The electrons interact with the very strong magnetic field and give rise to radiation, the ultraviolet component of which excites the visible nebula. Our program concerns with obtaining image of Crab nebula M1. We are interested about the neutron star.

Full Text of Proposal

Comments by OPC

General Comments: It is unclear what the purpose of the proposal is, and which observations are required. It is also doubtful that observations which can be performed in the context of Astronomy On-Line could say something about the neutron star.

Visibility:Visible most of the night.

Special Comments: It is suggested to take an image of the nebula in different filters (B, V, R, I, H-alpha?).

Expected time consumption (including overhead): About 30 minutes.

Proposed facility:Wendelstein.