we propose to use the unique capabilities offered by iso to obtain a low resolution mid-infrared spectrum of the newly discovered brown dwarf candidate denis-p j0205-1159 (1). old brown dwarfs, like this new isolated objects, have cooled to sufficiently low temperatures that dust forms in their atmospheres (allard 1997, tenerife bd conference). their atmospheric structure is still poorly understood. it is thus essential that the atmospheric models can be constrained by observed energy distributions, and especially important is the sed in the mid-ir where continuum blanketing by dust will occur, and where a significant fraction of the energy is emitted. spectroscopy of one brown dwarf would test the models and lead to a better understanding of brown dwarf atmospheres. we have recently imaged denis-p j0205-1159 with isocam and broad band filters. we find its flux is sufficient to measure its spectrum with the cam-lw cvf. this is the last opportunity to measure the low resolution spectrum of a brown dwarf before many years, ie. before sirtf. (1) delfosse et al., astronomy and astrophysics, 327, l25; martin et al., astronomy and astrophysics 327, l29; tinney et al., astrophysical journal letter 490, l95;
Instrument
CAM01 , CAM04
Temporal Coverage
1998-02-12T11:25:37Z/1998-02-12T14:23:07Z
Version
1.0
Mission Description
The Infrared Space Observatory (ISO) was the worlds first true orbiting infrared observatory. Equipped with four highly-sophisticated and versatile scientific instruments, it was launched by Ariane in November 1995 and provided astronomers world-wide with a facility of unprecedented sensitivity and capabilities for a detailed exploration of the Universe at infrared wavelengths.
European Space Agency, FORVEILLE et al., 1999, 'ISOCAM CVF SPECTRUM OF THE NEARBY BROWN DWARF DENIS-P J0205-1159', 1.0, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-rnug086
