The MSSSO Wide Field CCD Halpha Imaging Survey

Abstract

A wide-field Halpha survey of the Galactic Plane has been initiated by Mount Stromlo & Siding Spring Observatories in collaboration with the University of Sydney. The primary aim of the survey is to obtain images of the Galactic Plane in Halpha and red continuum filters which will be compared with radio continuum images at 843 MHz from the Molonglo Observatory Synthesis Telescope (MOST). The secondary aim is to obtain images in [OIII] and [SII] to provide additional information on the nature of excitation in HII regions. Thirdly, additional images will be taken in B, V and I of interesting areas suitable for general publications as coloured reproductions. The images are taken with a 400 mm f/4.5 Nikkor-Q lens in conjunction with a 2K x 2K SITe thinned CCD. The resolution is 12'' per pixel and the pixel size is 24 micrometers giving a 7° x 7° field of view. Halpha and red continuum observations are expected to be completed by the end of 1997. It is planned to make the results from the survey available on CD ROM and possibly video.