842 research outputs found
p3d: a general data-reduction tool for fiber-fed integral-field spectrographs
The reduction of integral-field spectrograph (IFS) data is demanding work.
Many repetitive operations are required in order to convert raw data into,
typically a large number of, spectra. This effort can be markedly simplified
through the use of a tool or pipeline, which is designed to complete many of
the repetitive operations without human interaction. Here we present our
semi-automatic data-reduction tool p3d that is designed to be used with
fiber-fed IFSs. Important components of p3d include a novel algorithm for
automatic finding and tracing of spectra on the detector, and two methods of
optimal spectrum extraction in addition to standard aperture extraction. p3d
also provides tools to combine several images, perform wavelength calibration
and flat field data. p3d is at the moment configured for four IFSs. In order to
evaluate its performance we have tested the different components of the tool.
For these tests we used both simulated and observational data. We demonstrate
that for three of the IFSs a correction for so-called cross-talk due to
overlapping spectra on the detector is required. Without such a correction
spectra will be inaccurate, in particular if there is a significant intensity
gradient across the object. Our tests showed that p3d is able to produce
accurate results. p3d is a highly general and freely available tool. It is
easily extended to include improved algorithms, new visualization tools and
support for additional instruments. The program code can be downloaded from the
p3d-project web site http://p3d.sourceforge.netComment: 18 pages, 15 figures, 3 tables, accepted for publication in A&
The initial singularity of ultrastiff perfect fluid spacetimes without symmetries
We consider the Einstein equations coupled to an ultrastiff perfect fluid and
prove the existence of a family of solutions with an initial singularity whose
structure is that of explicit isotropic models. This family of solutions is
`generic' in the sense that it depends on as many free functions as a general
solution, i.e., without imposing any symmetry assumptions, of the
Einstein-Euler equations. The method we use is a that of a Fuchsian reduction.Comment: 16 pages, journal versio
Tilted two-fluid Bianchi type I models
In this paper we investigate expanding Bianchi type I models with two tilted
fluids with the same linear equation of state, characterized by the equation of
state parameter w. Individually the fluids have non-zero energy fluxes w.r.t.
the symmetry surfaces, but these cancel each other because of the Codazzi
constraint. We prove that when w=0 the model isotropizes to the future. Using
numerical simulations and a linear analysis we also find the asymptotic states
of models with w>0. We find that future isotropization occurs if and only if . The results are compared to similar models investigated previously
where the two fluids have different equation of state parameters.Comment: 14 pages, 3 figure
On the Epistemology of the Precautionary Principle: Reply to Steglich-Petersen
In a recent paper in this journal, we proposed two novel puzzles associated with the precautionary principle. Both are puzzles that materialise, we argue, once we investigate the principle through an epistemological lens, and each constitutes a philosophical hurdle for any proponent of a plausible version of the precautionary principle. Steglich-Petersen claims, also in this journal, that he has resolved our puzzles. In this short note, we explain why we remain skeptica
Late-time behaviour of the Einstein-Vlasov system with Bianchi I symmetry
The late-time behaviour of the Einstein-dust system is well understood for
homogeneous spacetimes. For the case of Bianchi I we have been able to show
that the late-time behaviour of the Einstein-Vlasov system is well approximated
by the Einstein-dust system assuming that one is close to the unique stationary
solution which is the attractor of the Einstein-dust system.Comment: 4 pages, based on a talk given at the Spanish Relativity Meeting
2010, to appear in Journal of Physics: Conference Series (JPCS
Late-time behaviour of the Einstein-Vlasov system with Bianchi I symmetry
The late-time behaviour of the Einstein-dust system is well understood for
homogeneous spacetimes. For the case of Bianchi I we have been able to show
that the late-time behaviour of the Einstein-Vlasov system is well approximated
by the Einstein-dust system assuming that one is close to the unique stationary
solution which is the attractor of the Einstein-dust system.Comment: 4 pages, based on a talk given at the Spanish Relativity Meeting
2010, to appear in Journal of Physics: Conference Series (JPCS
Late-time behaviour of the Einstein-Vlasov system with Bianchi I symmetry
The late-time behaviour of the Einstein-dust system is well understood for
homogeneous spacetimes. For the case of Bianchi I we have been able to show
that the late-time behaviour of the Einstein-Vlasov system is well approximated
by the Einstein-dust system assuming that one is close to the unique stationary
solution which is the attractor of the Einstein-dust system.Comment: 4 pages, based on a talk given at the Spanish Relativity Meeting
2010, to appear in Journal of Physics: Conference Series (JPCS
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