NSF/AFOSR Astronomy: Rapid Deep Observations of Gamma-Ray Burst Optical Counterparts

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AST-0119685Carl AkerlofGamma ray burst sources have been observed by gamma ray sensitive instruments onboard spacecraft for several years. The nature of these sources remain a mystery. It has been known for sometime that there may be an optical event associated with the source that emits the Gamma Ray burst. This optical event associated with the Gamma ray burst source has not been confirmed. Light curves of this optical event will reveal basic physical processes and the high spatial frequency sampling will provide information sufficient to provide positions accurate enough for rapid follow-up. This experiment may enable the detection and characterization of the Gamma Ray burst source in the optical and infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum and thus lead to a critical analysis of the engine responsible for the burst.***