[Previous] | [Session 47] | [Next]
K. Mandel (California Institute of Technology), S. Jha, T. Matheson, P. Challis, R. P. Kirshner (Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics)
ABSTRACT
We present UBVRI photometry of the Type Ia supernova (SN) 2001V in NGC 3987. This object was discovered by the telescope operator at the F. L. Whipple Obs. (FLWO) on 2001 February 19 and was subsequently observed with the FLWO 1.2 meter telescope. Our photometric data consist of 190 measurements between discovery and 2001 May 31. This includes very good coverage of the light curve from approximately 14 days before maximum light. We use template and functional fits to measure important light curve parameters. We estimate that this SN achieved maximum light at Bmax = 14.64 ±0.03 mag on Julian Day 2451974.0 ± 0.3 (UT 2001 March 5.5). The light curve shape has an initial decline rate \Delta m15 (B) = 0.99 ±0.05 mag. Comparisons with other Type Ia SNe light curves suggest that this is a normal Type Ia SN. The light curve and color curves are very similar to those of the Type Ia SN 1990N.