wpo - SN/Hypernova 2002ap in M74 [Pisces]

vsnet-alert 7120 - 2002 Feb 1 - Gunma Astronomical Observatory, Bisei Astronomical Observatory and H.Yamaoka, Kyushu University, report "Lo-res spectra of SN 2002ap (IAUC 7810) on Jan 31.4 UT with GAO 0.65-m telescope (with GCS, range 380-750 nm) and on Jan 31.5 UT with BAO 1.01-m telescope (range 470-700 nm) reveals rather blue continuum with a steep decrease over 650-700 nm, and without any deep absorption or emission.  Very broad (FWZI ~ 30 - 50nm) and shallow depressions exist around 570 nm (deepest), 470 nm, and 620 nm.  Overall feature resembles to that of a peculiar Ib/c SN or hypernova 1997ef, but SN 2002ap is much bluer".   Info announced on IAUC 7811, as well as other two spectrum at ESO and Wise Obs. conclude SN 2002ap is a HYPERNOVA !  spectra#1 spectra#2.
IAUC 7810; SN2002ap  in NGC 628[M74] on 2002 Jan 29 at RA01h 36m 23.85s Decl+15^o45' 13.2"; offset 258"W 108"S  m14.5 by Hirose
This discovery came 72 hours after SN in nearby galaxies was discussed at the RAS/BAA Pro-Am Meeting - Cambridge on Jan 26.
   main SN spectra page   Seikei High School image   AAVSO finder chart

2002 Jan 31/Feb 5: Within hours of discovery first WPO image obtained under very poor conditions low in west through cloud breaks.  Spectrum obtained five days later with SN much brighter reveal no absorption band [SiII @ 612nm] for type Ia or emission lines for type II.  The [uncalibrated] spectrum is narrow peaking sharply ~550nm.  Compare continuum to that of the two adjacent field stars which are much smoother.

images & text [c] Maurice Gavin - 2002

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