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B.S. Mason, S.T. Myers (University of Pennsylvania)
The Sunyaev-Zeldovich Effect is a technique for directly measuring the distance scale of the universe. Until recently, the accuracy of this method has been limited by cluster modelling and calibration uncertainties. These factors are especially crucial for distance determinations since the error in the Hubble constant is proportional to the square of calibration and modelling uncertainties. We present the results of recent absolute calibration observations at the Owens Valley Radio Observatory which reduce the calibration error at 32 GHz by more than a factor of two. We also discuss modelling work undertaken with public ROSAT data which significantly reduces model-based uncertainties, as well as allowing us to precisely quantify these uncertainties via Monte-Carlo simulations. This work is presented in the context of the Penn-OVRO Sunyaev-Zeldovich Survey, a 32 GHz survey of the SZE in a complete sample of nearby galaxy clusters.
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