Sampling the Local White Dwarfs
Jay Holberg
University of Arizona, LPL
The sample of local white dwarfs within 20 pc of the sun currently
contains some 126 stars and is about 80% complete. Beyond this distance
completeness falls significantly. Nevertheless, there are many
compelling reasons for extending the local sample to greater distances,
while simultaneously maintaining a high level of completeness.
Justifications for such a larger relatively unbiased local sample
include determinations of the luminosity white dwarf function as well
as better characterizations of the degenerate population in terms of,
binarity, space motions, and photospheric chemical compositions. I will
discuss prospects for expanding the local sample and some of the
information that can be expected from it.
Date: | Thursday, 27 January 2011 |
Time: | 11:30 |
Where: | Université de Montréal |
| Pavillon Roger-Gaudry, Local D-460 |
Contact: | Pierre Bergeron |
|