WET is headquartered at Iowa State University and is a program of the International Institute of Theoretical and Applied Physics. The core observation run will be April 20-29. During this time, the Hubble Space Telescope will turn its attention to BPM37093 and provide the astronomers with highly sensitive measurements in ultraviolet and optical wavelengths. Kawaler says the Hubble will allow astronomers to determine the precise pattern of vibrations on BPM37093, while the WET observations will provide the precise timing of the vibrations. The astronomers plan to continue to monitor the white dwarf star periodically for several years.
Different elements crystallize at different temperatures.
Heavier elements like oxygen crystallize first, then the carbon will crystallize. The snowing effect would create additional energy not accounted for in some current white dwarf star models, Kawaler said. But if the oxygen crystallizes and stays suspended, then you're getting crystallization without an additional energy source. If it snows, you'll have an oxygen crystalline core and a carbon crystal mantle. Sort of a diamond shell.