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A new algorithm for differential photometry: computing anoptimum artificial comparison star
Author(s) -
Broeg Ch.,
Fernández M.,
Neuhäuser R.
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
astronomische nachrichten
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.394
H-Index - 63
eISSN - 1521-3994
pISSN - 0004-6337
DOI - 10.1002/asna.200410350
Subject(s) - photometry (optics) , stars , physics , algorithm , astrophysics , computer science
Our new algorithm for differential photometry solves the problem of identifying proper comparison stars without a prior detailed study of the field of view. The comparison stars' variability is determined in a self‐consistent way, and their weighted average is used as a reference level. The maximum error in differential photometry using objects and reference stars of different spectral types is estimated. The results from these calculations show that the photometric band chosen greatly determines the level of accuracy achieved. Finally, an important application of high‐precision differential photometry are planetary transits. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)