2009/07/25 by Colin Aspin, Bo Reipurth · 2 citations
Physics and Astronomy · #Astro and Planetary Science #Astronomy and Astrophysical Research #Astrophysics and Star Formation Studies #Brightness #Emission spectrum #Light curve #Line (geometry) #Photometry (optics) #Spectral line #Spectroscopy #Variable star #astro-ph.SR
paper · pdf · doi:10.1088/0004-6256/138/4/1137
59 pages, 22 figures
arxiv created 2009/07/25 · openalex publication_date 2009/09/04 · arxiv updated 2015/05/13 · openalex created_date 2016/06/24 · openalex updated_date 2026/08/05
We present results from an optical imaging and spectroscopic monitoring campaign on the young, low-mass eruptive variable star V1647 Orionis. The star and associated nebulosity (McNeil's Nebula) were observed over the period 2004 February to 2006 February with observations commencing a few months after the original outburst event occurred. Using the Gemini North telescope, we obtained multiband optical imaging photometry and medium-resolution long-slit spectroscopy of V1647 Ori on an approximately monthly interval. During this period, V1647 Ori remained at, or close to, peak brightness and then faded by 5 mag to close to its pre-outburst brightness. This implies an outburst timescale of around 27 months. Spectral features seen in both emission and absorption varied considerably during the monitoring period. For example, the Hα line changed significantly in both intensity and profile. We present and discuss the observed photometric and spectroscopic changes and consider how this eruptive event relates to the early formative stages of low-mass stars.