View article

We propose to obtain new Gemini/GMOS images and spectra of three extremely bright Type II SNe (2007it, 2007oc, 2007od) as part of a unique detailed study of dust formation of SNe at visible, near-and mid-IR wavelengths. These new observations will be combined with already approved 2008A Gemini/GMOS (band 1) and Spitzer Cycle 5 (priority 1) programs as well as a proposed joint HST-NOAO program for 2009. Because all three SNe are so unusually bright (V 13.5 mag), we should be able to follow their evolution for at least two years (2007-2009). This is very important because dust typically condenses in the SN ejecta approximately 300-600 days after the initial explosion. The spectra and images of 2007oc and 2007od will be obtained three times in 2008B at approximately 60-day intervals covering the span of 300 to 480 days since the explosion, while 2007it will be sampled once at the start of the …