Title: Off-label usage of the Dark Energy Survey

Abstract: I will present the methods and results of a search for outer-solar-system bodies in the 6 years of images from the Dark Energy Survey of 1/8 of the sky. Some initial inferences from the >800 trans-Neptunian objects detected in DES search weigh on the possible existence of a distant Neptune-mass "Planet X," and on the formation of the TNO population. The search also discovered the largest known comet, C/2014 UN 271. This unique find is probably entering the planetary realm from the Oort cloud for the first time in 4 Gyr, and DES and subsequent data reveal the initial episode of sublimation. Our techniques will significantly enhance LSST’s measurements of many more members of these populations.

Astro Colloquium and 'coffee & cookies' department gathering (3:45-4:00pm)

Please click the link to join virtually: https://psu.zoom.us/j/92637070419