Probing MACHOs by observation of M31 pixel lensing with the 1.5m Loiano telescope

Abstract

We analyse a series of pilot observations in order to study microlensing of (unresolved) stars in M31 with the 1.5m Loiano telescope, including observations on both identified variable source stars and reported microlensing events. We also look for previously unknown variability and discover a nova. We discuss an observing strategy for an extended campaign with the goal of determining whether MACHOs exist or whether all microlensing events are compatible with lens stars in M31.

Accepted for publication as a research Note in Astronomy & Astrophysics

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Cited by in corpus (12)

• Pixel-lensing as a way to detect extrasolar planets in M31
• M31 pixel lensing event OAB-N2: a study of the lens proper motion
• Pixel lensing: Microlensing towards M31
• Discovery of a bright microlensing event with planetary features towards the Taurus region: a super Earth planet
• Candidate microlensing events from M31 observations with the Loiano telescope
• The Wendelstein Calar Alto Pixellensing Project (WeCAPP): the M31 Nova catalogue
• Astrometric microlensing
• CMB as a possible new tool to study the dark baryons in galaxies
• M31 Pixel Lensing PLAN Campaign: MACHO Lensing and Self Lensing Signals
• Timing analysis in microlensing
• Microlensing towards the Magellanic Clouds and M31: is the quest for MACHOs still open?
• Limits on compact halo objects as dark matter from gravitational microlensing