P69-002: Optical polarization observations of IXPE targetsPI: Pouya M. KouchMultiwavelength polarization, and in particular X-ray polarization, is an important probe of the magnetic field geometry, acceleration physics, and high-energy emission processes of blazar jets. The Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE) was successfully launched on the 9th of December 2021 opening a new window to the Universe through high-energy polarization. Here we propose simultaneous multi-band polarization observations of IXPE blazar targets. The proposed observations will supplement our planned multiwavelength campaign in radio, X-rays, and gamma-rays. Comparison of the millimeter-wave, optical, and X-ray polarization and measurement of the mm–optical–UV–X-ray continuum spectra of the blazars, will provide data needed to determine, for the first time, the mechanism and location of the X-ray emission, as well as test particle acceleration models in blazar jets.
ToO triggersThe program aims to provide contemporaneous optical polarization coverage of IXPE observations. We require triggered multi-band (BVRI) polarimetric observations within a day of the IXPE observations. Time-lags of 1-2 days between the optical and X-ray observations are possible if weather or other telescope constrains prevent quasi-simultaneous observations. Longer lags will, however, hamper the achievement of our scientific objectives. For 4 high variable IXPE sources, we require 2 additional observations within two hours to evaluate potential intra-night variability at the time of the IXPE observations. For the intra-night variability we require only VRI observations. The IXPE observing schedule will be known 2-4 weeks in advance.Calibrations: Twilight flats + alfosc-calibs
The OB generator will be used to request all ToO observations.
Scripts to perform all the requested operations will be automatically
created and placed in the directory ~/scripts/69-002/. An email will
be sent automatically to the observer, which contains all the information
about the requested observations, the names and locations of the scripts,
instructions for observing and comments from the creator of the trigger.
Go to the directory and execute the OB generated scripts requested in the trigger email.
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