Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope

Fermi ToO 090604-1-1

A ToO observation to observe CTA 102 at RA, Dec = 333.1520, 11.7310 (J2000) was approved at 2016-12-15 17:58:21 UTC.

The justification for the ToO is: Blazar CTA 102 (redshift 1.04) has undergone a major flare, doubling in flux over the past day to become as bright as the Vela pulsar. It has been active for weeks, with multiple rapid variations in flux, seen not only in gamma rays but also at other wavelengths. This TOO gives us an opportunity to measure some of the most rapid variations in a relatively distant object. It is well positioned for multi wavelength observations. It is also the only blazar to have a song about it (by The Byrds), so how can we pass up this opportunity?

The planned duration is 300.00 ks.

The autonomous request threshold during this ToO is LOW.

The ToO observation should begin between 2016-12-15 17:58:21 UTC and 2016-12-22 17:58:21 UTC.

The ToO observation was requested by DR. DAVID J THOMPSON.

The ToO commanding order was sent to the MOC at 2016-12-15 18:03:28 UTC.

The MOC sent the ToO execution notification at 2016-12-15 20:43:37 UTC.

The ToO order status is Uplinked at or before: 2016-12-15 20:41:12 UT