these observations represent our first chance to monitor the far ir evolution of the final helium shell flash of an evolved star. given the rarity of such an event, it is likely that iso will be the only space mission to see such an event for a very long time indeed. the iso data will provide unparalleled and unique spectroscopic information on the nature of the material generated in such an event - by its very nature we have no direct knowledge of what to expect. however, judging from the 2 previous events of this kind, it seems almost certain that there will be numerous ionisation species, a dust component, and free-free emission.
Instrument
LWS01 , SWS01
Temporal Coverage
1997-04-14T15:35:29Z/1997-04-14T16:59:53Z
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, EYRES et al., 1999, 'SPECTROSCOPY OF SAKURAI.S OBJECT IN SAGITTARIUS: THE EVOLUTION OF A FINAL HELIUM SHELL FLASH', 1.0, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-hui4vfw
