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B. Vandenbussche

Publications and source records attributed to B. Vandenbussche.

At least 37 records · Page 2Linked to original sources

JOYS: Disentangling the warm and cold material in the high-mass IRAS 23385+6053 cluster

(abridged) We study and compare the warm (>100 K) and cold (<100 K) material toward the high-mass star-forming region IRAS 23385+6053 (IRAS 23385 hereafter) combining high angular resolution observations in the mid-infrared (MIR) with the JWST Observations of Young protoStars (JOYS) project and with the NOEMA at mm wavelengths at angular resolutions of 0.2"-1". The spatial morphology of atomic and molecular species is investigated by line integrated intensity maps. The temperature and column density of different gas components is estimated using H2 transitions (warm and hot component) and a series of CH3CN transitions as well as 3 mm continuum emission (cold component). Toward the central dense core in IRAS 23385 the material consists of relatively cold gas and dust (~50 K), while multiple outflows create heated and/or shocked H2 and show enhanced temperatures (~400 K) along the outflow structures. An energetic outflow with enhanced emission knots of [Fe II] and [Ni II] hints at J-type shocks, while two other outflows have enhanced emission of only H2 and [S I] caused by C-type shocks. The latter two outflows are also more prominent in molecular line emission at mm wavelengths (e.g., SiO, SO, H2CO, and CH3OH). Even higher angular resolution data are needed to unambiguously identify the outflow driving sources given the clustered nature of IRAS 23385. While most of the forbidden fine structure transitions are blueshifted, [Ne II] and [Ne III] peak at the source velocity toward the MIR source A/mmA2 suggesting that the emission is originating from closer to the protostar.

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Water in the terrestrial planet-forming zone of the PDS 70 disk

Terrestrial and sub-Neptune planets are expected to form in the inner ($<10~$AU) regions of protoplanetary disks. Water plays a key role in their formation, although it is yet unclear whether water molecules are formed in-situ or transported from the outer disk. So far Spitzer Space Telescope observations have only provided water luminosity upper limits for dust-depleted inner disks, similar to PDS 70, the first system with direct confirmation of protoplanet presence. Here we report JWST observations of PDS 70, a benchmark target to search for water in a disk hosting a large ($\sim54~$AU) planet-carved gap separating an inner and outer disk. Our findings show water in the inner disk of PDS 70. This implies that potential terrestrial planets forming therein have access to a water reservoir. The column densities of water vapour suggest in-situ formation via a reaction sequence involving O, H$_2$, and/or OH, and survival through water self-shielding. This is also supported by the presence of CO$_2$ emission, another molecule sensitive to UV photodissociation. Dust shielding, and replenishment of both gas and small dust from the outer disk, may also play a role in sustaining the water reservoir. Our observations also reveal a strong variability of the mid-infrared spectral energy distribution, pointing to a change of inner disk geometry.

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Geometric distortion and astrometric calibration of the JWST MIRI Medium Resolution Spectrometer

The Medium-Resolution integral field Spectrometer (MRS) of MIRI on board JWST performs spectroscopy between 5 and 28~$μ$m. The optics of the MRS introduce substantial distortion, and this needs to be rectified in order to reconstruct the observed astrophysical scene. We use data from the JWST/MIRI commissioning and cycle 1 calibration phase, to derive the MRS geometric distortion and astrometric solution, a critical step in the calibration of MRS data. These solutions come in the form of transform matrices that map the detector pixels to spatial coordinates of a local MRS coordinate system called $α$/$β$, to the global JWST observatory coordinates V2/V3. For every MRS spectral band and each slice dispersed on the detector, the transform of detector pixels to $α$/$β$ is fit by a two-dimensional polynomial, using a raster of point source observations. A polynomial transform is used to map the coordinates from $α$/$β$ to V2/V3. We calibrated the distortion of all 198 discrete slices of the MIRI/MRS IFUs, and derived an updated Field of View (FoV) for each MRS spectral band. The precision of the distortion solution is estimated to be better than one tenth of a spatial resolution element, with a root mean square (rms) of 10 milli-arcsecond (mas) at 5 $μ$m, to 23 mas at 27 $μ$m. Finally we find that the wheel positioning repeatability causes an additional astrometric error of rms 30 mas. We have demonstrated the MRS astrometric calibration strategy and analysis enabling the calibration of MRS spectra, a critical step in the data pipeline especially for science with spatially resolved objects. The distortion calibration was folded into the JWST pipeline in Calibration Reference Data System (CRDS) context jwst\_1094.pmap. The distortion calibration precision meets the pre-launch requirement, and the estimated total astrometric uncertainty is 50 mas.

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MIDIS: Strong (Hb + [OIII]) and Ha emitters at redshift $z \simeq 7-8$ unveiled with JWST/NIRCam and MIRI imaging in the Hubble eXtreme Deep Field (XDF)

We make use of \textit{JWST} medium and broad-band NIRCam imaging, along with ultra-deep MIRI $5.6 \rm μm$ imaging, in the Hubble eXtreme Deep Field (XDF) to identify prominent line emitters at $z\simeq 7-8$. Out of a total of 58 galaxies at $z\simeq 7-8$, we find 18 robust candidates ($\simeq$31\%) for (H$β$ + [OIII]) emitters, based on their enhanced fluxes in the F430M and F444W filters, with EW$_{0}$(H$β$ +[OIII]) $\simeq 87 - 2100$ Å. Among these emitters, 16 lie in the MIRI coverage area and 12 exhibit a clear flux excess at $5.6 \, \rm μm$, indicating the simultaneous presence of a prominent H$α$ emission line with EW$_{0}$(H$α$) $\simeq 200-3000$ Å. This is the first time that H$α$ emission can be detected in individual galaxies at $z>7$. The H$α$ line, when present, allows us to separate the contributions of H$β$ and [OIII] to the (H$β$ +[OIII]) complex, and derive H$α$-based star formation rates (SFRs). We find that in most cases [OIII]/H$β> 1$. Instead, two galaxies have [OIII]/H$β< 1$, indicating that the NIRCam flux excess is mainly driven by H$β$. This could potentially imply extremely low metallicities. Most prominent line emitters are very young starbursts or galaxies on their way to/from the starburst cloud. They make for a cosmic SFR density $\rm log_{10}(ρ_{SFR_{Hα}}) \simeq -2.35$, which is about a quarter of the total value ($\rm log_{10}(ρ_{SFR_{tot}}) \simeq -1.76$) at $z\simeq 7-8$. Therefore, the strong H$α$ emitters likely had a significant role in reionization.

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Observations of the Planetary Nebula SMP LMC 058 with the JWST MIRI Medium Resolution Spectrometer

During the commissioning of {\em JWST}, the Medium-Resolution Spectrometer (MRS) on the Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI) observed the planetary nebula SMP LMC 058 in the Large Magellanic Cloud. The MRS was designed to provide medium resolution (R = $λ$/$Δλ$) 3D spectroscopy in the whole MIRI range. SMP LMC 058 is the only source observed in {\em JWST} commissioning that is both spatially and spectrally unresolved by the MRS and is a good test of {\em JWST's} capabilities. The new MRS spectra reveal a wealth of emission lines not previously detected in this planetary nebula. From these lines, the spectral resolving power ($λ$/$Δλ$) of the MRS is confirmed to be in the range R $=$ 4000 to 1500, depending on the MRS spectral sub-band. In addition, the spectra confirm that the carbon-rich dust emission is from SiC grains and that there is little to no time evolution of the SiC dust and emission line strengths over a 17-year epoch. These commissioning data reveal the great potential of the MIRI MRS for the study of circumstellar and interstellar material.

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Uncovering the stellar structure of the dusty star-forming galaxy GN20 at z=4.055 with MIRI/JWST

Luminous infrared galaxies at high redshifts ($z$>4) include extreme starbursts that build their stellar mass over short periods of time (>100 Myr). These galaxies are considered to be the progenitors of massive quiescent galaxies at intermediate redshifts ($z\sim$2) but their stellar structure and buildup is unknown. Here, we present the first spatially resolved near-infrared imaging of GN20, one of the most luminous dusty star-forming galaxies known to date, observed at an epoch when the Universe was only 1.5 Gyr old. The 5.6$μ$m image taken with the JWST Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI/JWST) shows that GN20 is a very luminous galaxy (M$_\mathrm{1.1μm,AB}$=$-$25.01), with a stellar structure composed of a conspicuous central source and an extended envelope. The central source is an unresolved nucleus that carries 9% of the total flux. The nucleus is co-aligned with the peak of the cold dust emission, and offset by 3.9 kpc from the ultraviolet stellar emission. The diffuse stellar envelope is similar in size to the clumpy CO molecular gas distribution. The centroid of the stellar envelope is offset by 1 kpc from the unresolved nucleus, suggesting GN20 is involved in an interaction or merger event supported by its location as the brightest galaxy in a proto-cluster. The stellar size of GN20 is larger by a factor of about 3-5 than known spheroids, disks, and irregulars at $z\sim$4, while its size and low Sérsic index are similar to those measured in dusty, infrared luminous galaxies at $z\sim$2 of the same mass. GN20 has all the ingredients necessary for evolving into a massive spheroidal quiescent galaxy at intermediate $z$: it is a large, luminous galaxy at $z$=4.05 involved in a short and massive starburst centred in the stellar nucleus and extended over the entire galaxy, out to radii of 4 kpc, and likely induced by the interaction or merger with a member of the proto-cluster.

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A rich hydrocarbon chemistry and high C to O ratio in the inner disk around a very low-mass star

Carbon is an essential element for life but how much can be delivered to young planets is still an open question. The chemical characterization of planet-forming disks is a crucial step in our understanding of the diversity and habitability of exoplanets. Very low-mass stars ($<0.2~M_{\odot}$) are interesting targets because they host a rich population of terrestrial planets. Here we present the JWST detection of abundant hydrocarbons in the disk of a very low-mass star obtained as part of the MIRI mid-INfrared Disk Survey (MINDS). In addition to very strong and broad emission from C$_2$H$_2$ and its $^{13}$C$^{12}$CH$_2$ isotopologue, C$_4$H$_2$, benzene, and possibly CH$_4$ are identified, but water, PAH and silicate features are weak or absent. The lack of small silicate grains implies that we can look deep down into this disk. These detections testify to an active warm hydrocarbon chemistry with a high C/O ratio in the inner 0.1 au of this disk, perhaps due to destruction of carbonaceous grains. The exceptionally high C$_2$H$_2$/CO$_2$ and C$_2$H$_2$/H$_2$O column density ratios suggest that oxygen is locked up in icy pebbles and planetesimals outside the water iceline. This, in turn, will have significant consequences for the composition of forming exoplanets.

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JOYS: JWST Observations of Young protoStars: Outflows and accretion in the high-mass star-forming region IRAS23385+605

Aims: The JWST program JOYS (JWST Observations of Young protoStars) aims at characterizing the physical and chemical properties of young high- and low-mass star-forming regions, in particular the unique mid-infrared diagnostics of the warmer gas and solid-state components. We present early results from the high-mass star formation region IRAS23385+6053. Methods: The JOYS program uses the MIRI MRS with its IFU to investigate a sample of high- and low-mass star-forming protostellar systems. Results: The 5 to 28mum MIRI spectrum of IRAS23385+6053 shows a plethora of features. While the general spectrum is typical for an embedded protostar, we see many atomic and molecular gas lines boosted by the higher spectral resolution and sensitivity compared to previous space missions. Furthermore, ice and dust absorption features are also present. Here, we focus on the continuum emission, outflow tracers like the H2, [FeII] and [NeII] lines as well as the potential accretion tracer Humphreys alpha HI(7--6). The short-wavelength MIRI data resolve two continuum sources A and B, where mid-infrared source A is associated with the main mm continuum peak. The combination of mid-infrared and mm data reveals a young cluster in its making. Combining the mid-infrared outflow tracer H2, [FeII] and [NeII] with mm SiO data shows a complex interplay of at least three molecular outflows driven by protostars in the forming cluster. Furthermore, the Humphreys alpha line is detected at a 3-4sigma level towards the mid-infrared sources A and B. Following Rigliaco et al. (2015), one can roughly estimate accretion luminosities and corresponding accretion rates between ~2.6x10^-6 and ~0.9x10^-4 M_sun/yr. This is discussed in the context of the observed outflow rates. Conclusions: The analysis of the MIRI MRS observations for this young high-mass star-forming region reveals connected outflow and accretion signatures.

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JWST MIRI/MRS in-flight absolute flux calibration and tailored fringe correction for unresolved sources

The MRS is one of the four observing modes of JWST/MIRI. Using JWST in-flight data of unresolved (point) sources, we can derive the MRS absolute spectral response function (ASRF) starting from raw data. Spectral fringing plays a critical role in the derivation and interpretation of the MRS ASRF. In this paper, we present an alternative way to calibrate the data. Firstly, we aim to derive a fringe correction that accounts for the dependence of the fringe properties on the MIRI pupil illumination and detector pixel sampling of the point spread function. Secondly, we aim to derive the MRS ASRF using an absolute flux calibrator observed across the full 5 to 28 $μ$m wavelength range of the MRS. Thirdly, we aim to apply the new ASRF to the spectrum of a G dwarf and compare with the output of the JWST/MIRI default data reduction pipeline. Finally, we examine the impact of the different fringe corrections on the detectability of molecular features in the G dwarf and K giant. The absolute flux calibrator HD 163466 (A-star) is used to derive tailored point source fringe flats at each of the default dither locations of the MRS. The fringe-corrected point source integrated spectrum of HD 163466 is used to derive the MRS ASRF using a theoretical model for the stellar continuum. A cross-correlation is run to quantify the uncertainty on the detection of CO, SiO, and OH in the K giant and CO in the G dwarf for different fringe corrections. The point-source-tailored fringe correction and ASRF are found to perform at the same level as the current corrections, beating down the fringe contrast to the sub-percent level, whilst mitigating the alteration of real molecular features. The same tailored solutions can be applied to other MRS unresolved targets. A pointing repeatability issue in the MRS limits the effectiveness of the tailored fringe flats is at short wavelengths.

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Water, hydrogen cyanide, carbon monoxide, and dust production from distant comet 29P/Schwassmann-Wachmann 1

29P/Schwassmann-Wachmann 1 is a distant Centaur/comet, showing persistent CO-driven activity and frequent outbursts. We used the Herschel space observatory in 2010, 2011, and 2013 to observe H$_2$O and NH$_3$ and to image the dust coma. Observations with the IRAM 30 m were undertaken in 2007, 2010, 2011, and 2021 to monitor the CO production rate and to search for HCN. Modeling was performed to constrain the size of the sublimating icy grains and to derive the dust production rate. HCN is detected for the first time in comet 29P (at 5$σ$ in the line area). H$_2$O is detected as well, but not NH$_3$. H$_2$O and HCN line shapes differ strongly from the CO line shape, indicating that these two species are released from icy grains. CO production rates are in the range (2.9-5.6) $\times$ 10$^{28}$ s$^{-1}$ (1400--2600 kg s$^{-1}$). A correlation between the CO production rate and coma brightness is observed, as is a correlation between CO and H$_2$O production. The correlation obtained between the excess of CO production and excess of dust brightness with respect to the quiescent state is similar to that established for the continuous activity of comet Hale-Bopp. The measured $Q$(H$_2$O)/$Q$(CO) and $Q$(HCN)/$Q$(CO) production rate ratios are 10.0 $\pm$ 1.5 % and 0.12 $\pm$ 0.03 %, respectively, averaging the April-May 2010 measurements ($Q$(H$_2$O) = (4.1 $\pm$ 0.6) $\times$ 10$^{27}$ s$^{-1}$, $Q$(HCN) = (4.8 $\pm$ 1.1) $\times$ 10$^{25}$ s$^{-1}$). We derive three independent and similar values of the effective radius of the nucleus, $\sim$ 31 $\pm$ 3 km. The inferred dust mass-loss rates during quiescent phases are in the range 30-120 kg s$^{-1}$, indicating a dust-to-gas mass ratio $<$ 0.1 during quiescent activity. We conclude that strong local heterogeneities exist on the surface of 29P, with quenched dust activity from most of the surface, but not in outbursting regions.

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The CubeSpec space mission. I. Asteroseismology of massive stars from time series optical spectroscopy: science requirements and target list prioritisation

Context. There is currently a niche for providing high-cadence, high resolution, time-series optical spectroscopy from space, which can be filled by using a low-cost cubesat mission. The Belgian-led ESA CubeSpec mission is specifically designed to provide space-based, low-cost spectroscopy with specific capabilities that can be optimised for a particular science need. Approved as an ESA in-orbit demonstrator, the CubeSpec satellite's primary science objective will focus on obtaining high-cadence, high resolution optical spectroscopic data to facilitate asteroseismology of pulsating massive stars. Aims. In this first paper, we aim to search for pulsating massive stars suitable for the CubeSpec mission, specifically $β$ Cep stars, which typically require time series spectroscopy to identify the geometry of their pulsation modes. Methods. Based on the science requirements needed to enable asteroseismology of massive stars with the capabilities of CubeSpec's spectrograph, we combine a literature study for pulsation with the analysis of recent high-cadence time series TESS photometry to classify the variability for stars brighter than V < 4 mag and between O9 and B3 in spectral type. Results. Among the 90 stars that meet our magnitude and spectral type requirements, we identify 23 promising $β$ Cep stars with high-amplitude (non-)radial pulsation modes with frequencies below 7 d$^{-1}$. Using further constraints on projected rotational velocities, pulsation amplitudes and number of pulsation modes, we devise a prioritised target list for the CubeSpec mission according to its science requirements and the potential of the targets for asteroseismology. The full target catalogue further provide a modern TESS-based review of line profile and photometric variability properties among bright O9-B3 stars.

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Wavelength Calibration and Resolving Power of the JWST MIRI Medium Resolution Spectrometer

The Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI) on-board JWST will provide imaging, coronagraphy, low-resolution spectroscopy and medium-resolution spectroscopy at unprecedented sensitivity levels in the mid-infrared wavelength range. The Medium-Resolution Spectrometer (MRS) of MIRI is an integral field spectrograph that provides diffraction-limited spectroscopy between 4.9 and 28.3 um, within a FOV varying from 13 to 56" square. From ground testing, we calculate the physical parameters essential to general observers and calibrating the wavelength solution and resolving power of the MRS is critical for maximising the scientific performance of the instrument. We have used ground-based observations of discrete spectral features in combination with Fabry-Perot etalon spectra to characterize the wavelength solution and spectral resolving power of the MRS. We present the methodology used to derive the MRS spectral characterisation, which includes the precise wavelength coverage of each MRS sub-band, computation of the resolving power as a function of wavelength, and measuring slice-dependent spectral distortions. The resolving power varies from R3500 in channel 1 to R1500 in channel 4. Based on the ground test data, the wavelength calibration accuracy is estimated to be below one tenth of a pixel, with small systematic shifts due to the target position within a slice for unresolved sources, that have a maximum amplitude of about 0.25 spectral resolution elements. Based on ground test data, the MRS complies with the spectral requirements for both the R and wavelength accuracy for which it was designed. We also present the commissioning strategies and targets that will be followed to update the spectral characterisation of the MRS.

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SPICA - a large cryogenic infrared space telescope Unveiling the obscured Universe

Measurements in the infrared wavelength domain allow us to assess directly the physical state and energy balance of cool matter in space, thus enabling the detailed study of the various processes that govern the formation and early evolution of stars and planetary systems in galaxies over cosmic time. Previous infrared missions, from IRAS to Herschel, have revealed a great deal about the obscured Universe, but sensitivity has been limited because up to now it has not been possible to fly a telescope that is both large and cold. SPICA is a mission concept aimed at taking the next step in mid- and far-infrared observational capability by combining a large and cold telescope with instruments employing state-of-the-art ultra-sensitive detectors. The mission concept foresees a 2.5-meter diameter telescope cooled to below 8 K. With cooling provided by mechanical coolers instead of depending on a limited cryogen supply, the mission lifetime can extend significantly beyond the required three years. SPICA offers instrumentation with spectral resolving powers ranging from R ~50 through 11000 in the 17-230 $μ$m domain as well as R~28.000 spectroscopy between 12 and 18 $μ$m. Additionally SPICA will provide efficient 30-37 $μ$m broad band mapping, and polarimetric imaging in the 100-350 $μ$m range. SPICA will provide unprecedented spectroscopic sensitivity of ~5 x $10^{-20}$ W/m$^2$ (5$σ$/1hr) - at least two orders of magnitude improvement over what has been attained to date. With this exceptional leap in performance, new domains in infrared astronomy will become accessible, allowing us, for example, to unravel definitively galaxy evolution and metal production over cosmic time, to study dust formation and evolution from very early epochs onwards, and to trace the formation history of planetary systems.

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The MIRI Medium Resolution Spectrometer calibration pipeline

The Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI) Medium Resolution Spectrometer (MRS) is the only mid-IR Integral Field Spectrometer on board James Webb Space Telescope. The complexity of the MRS requires a very specialized pipeline, with some specific steps not present in other pipelines of JWST instruments, such as fringe corrections and wavelength offsets, with different algorithms for point source or extended source data. The MRS pipeline has also two different variants: the baseline pipeline, optimized for most foreseen science cases, and the optimal pipeline, where extra steps will be needed for specific science cases. This paper provides a comprehensive description of the MRS Calibration Pipeline from uncalibrated slope images to final scientific products, with brief descriptions of its algorithms, input and output data, and the accessory data and calibration data products necessary to run the pipeline.

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Herschel detects oxygen in the beta Pictoris debris disk

The young star beta Pictoris is well known for its dusty debris disk, produced through the grinding down by collisions of planetesimals, kilometre-sized bodies in orbit around the star. In addition to dust, small amounts of gas are also known to orbit the star, likely the result from vaporisation of violently colliding dust grains. The disk is seen edge on and from previous absorption spectroscopy we know that the gas is very rich in carbon relative to other elements. The oxygen content has been more difficult to assess, however, with early estimates finding very little oxygen in the gas at a C/O ratio 20x higher than the cosmic value. A C/O ratio that high is difficult to explain and would have far-reaching consequences for planet formation. Here we report on observations by the far-infrared space telescope Herschel, using PACS, of emission lines from ionised carbon and neutral oxygen. The detected emission from C+ is consistent with that previously reported being observed by the HIFI instrument on Herschel, while the emission from O is hard to explain without assuming a higher-density region in the disk, perhaps in the shape of a clump or a dense torus, required to sufficiently excite the O atoms. A possible scenario is that the C/O gas is produced by the same process responsible for the CO clump recently observed by ALMA in the disk, and that the re-distribution of the gas takes longer than previously assumed. A more detailed estimate of the C/O ratio and the mass of O will have to await better constraints on the C/O gas spatial distribution.

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Constraints on the H2O formation mechanism in the wind of carbon-rich AGB stars

Context. The recent detection of warm H$_2$O vapor emission from the outflows of carbon-rich asymptotic giant branch (AGB) stars challenges the current understanding of circumstellar chemistry. Two mechanisms have been invoked to explain warm H$_2$O vapor formation. In the first, periodic shocks passing through the medium immediately above the stellar surface lead to H$_2$O formation. In the second, penetration of ultraviolet interstellar radiation through a clumpy circumstellar medium leads to the formation of H$_2$O molecules in the intermediate wind. Aims. We aim to determine the properties of H$_2$O emission for a sample of 18 carbon-rich AGB stars and subsequently constrain which of the above mechanisms provides the most likely warm H$_2$O formation pathway. Methods, Results, and Conclusions. See paper.

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The Mid-Infrared Instrument for the James Webb Space Telescope, IX: Predicted Sensitivity

We present an estimate of the performance that will be achieved during on orbit operations of the JWST Mid Infrared Instrument, MIRI. The efficiency of the main imager and spectrometer systems in detecting photons from an astronomical target are presented, based on measurements at sub-system and instrument level testing, with the end-to-end transmission budget discussed in some detail. The brightest target fluxes that can be measured without saturating the detectors are provided. The sensitivity for long duration observations of faint sources is presented in terms of the target flux required to achieve a signal to noise ratio of 10 after a 10,000 second observation. The algorithms used in the sensitivity model are presented, including the understanding gained during testing of the MIRI Flight Model and flight-like detectors.

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