The APM QSO Survey. I. Initial MMT Results
Abstract
This is the first paper in a series aimed at selecting ≡1000 QSOs brighter than mJ = 18.5 using machine-scanned direct and objective-prism plates from the UK Schmidt Telescope. The plate material is scanned at the Institute of Astronomy's Automated Plate Measuring facility; algorithms select approximately three candidates per square degree as possible QSOs. Follow-up spectroscopy at the Multiple Mirror Telescope is used to classify each candidate. In this initial paper, the authors describe the scientific objectives of the survey and the selection and observing techniques used, and present the first sample of 192 QSOs in a 102 sq. deg area centered on the Virgo cluster. They present accurate coordinates, magnitudes, redshifts, and moderate signal-to-noise ratio and resolution spectra of all 192 QSOs. The variety of QSO spectra present in the sample, including at least seven BAL QSOs plus one lineless object with a redshift greater than 0.68, demonstrates the ability of the selection procedures to uncover QSOs over a wide range of redshifts and spectral properties.
- Publication:
-
The Astronomical Journal
- Pub Date:
- December 1987
- DOI:
- 10.1086/114577
- Bibcode:
- 1987AJ.....94.1423F
- Keywords:
-
- Astronomical Catalogs;
- Astronomical Spectroscopy;
- Quasars;
- Schmidt Telescopes;
- Astronomical Coordinates;
- Mirrors;
- Red Shift;
- Signal To Noise Ratios;
- Stellar Magnitude;
- Astronomy;
- QUASARS