An Observational Program to detect Supernovae in the Virgo Cluster.

ABSTRACT: This effort will consist of an observational initiative involving galaxies associated with the Virgo Cluster in search of supernovae (SNe). This program is intended to yield one, perhaps two supernovae, during a specified period of time (the time of access to the cluster proper). This systematic search will concentrate on varying morphological types of galaxies within the cluster, plus associated areas. The candidates have been chosen to correspond with other visual searches that are currently underway, thus attempting to create a more complete and comprehensive program of observation, involving conscientious observers in one concise package. The magnitude limit of this search will concentrate on galaxies brighter than ~14.7v. There are over 2,096 galaxies represented within an area ~140 square degrees, roughly centered on the Virgo Cluster centroid ( [alpha] 12h 25m, and [delta] ~+13 degrees). This program will provide data on ~213 galaxies (from 12h to13h RA, and 0 to+20 degrees DEC),with emphasis on ~77 entities that have measured magnitude sequencing employing the Thompson/Bryan SN Charts (1). This program is intended as a visual search routine,however a photographic (CCD) initiative could be also employed. This paper will be divided into several sections: STRUCTURE AND DESCRIPTION OF THE VIRGO CLUSTER. NOMENCLATURE OF THE VARIOUS GALAXY TYPES (HUBBLE CLASS.). DISCUSSION OF MAGNITUDE ESTIMATION / PERSONAL EQUATION. LIGHT CURVES OF SUPERNOVAE (A DISCUSSION). SUPERNOVAE THAT HAVE OCCURED IN THE TARGET AREA (STATISTICS). THE PROGRAM GALAXIES (STATISTICS). APPENDIX: SUPERNOVAE CHARTS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL / SOURCE. EPILOGUE. REFERENCES. I.S.N. thanks Steve Lucas for this effort.