we propose an iso target of opportunity observation of the bl lacartae object markarian 501 which is currently undergoing a major outburst at tev energies. according to many current theories of the emission processes in blazras, the far-ir continuum provides the seed photons for inverse compton gamma rays, so a gamma-ray outburst should be accompanied (and preceeded) by a far-ir outburst. unfortunately, since the launch of iso, only one blazar outburst (3c279) has been observed by iso, and that in pv phase where the quality of the iso data are less than optimum. furthermore no ultra high energy (uhe) gamma ray measurements were available. this may represent the only chance with iso to investigate any ir/uhe gamma ray linj in flaring blazars. an accurate measurement of the ir continuum during the current outburst will yield major diagnostics of the physical processes in the emission region of these enigmatic objects.
Instrument
CAM01 , PHT22
Temporal Coverage
1997-04-10T19:28:58Z/1997-04-10T19:53:42Z
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, Barr et al., 1998, 'TARGET OF OPPORTUNITY OF THE GAMMA-RAY FLARING BLAZAR MKN 501', 1.0, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-gl387dv
