Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astrophysics
Scientific paper
2008-12-25
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astrophysics
2 pages, 6 figures, contributed poster at IAU Symposium 259 "Cosmic Magnetic Fields: from Planets, to Stars and Galaxies", Ten
Scientific paper
10.1017/S1743921309030774
Cyclical wind variability is an ubiquitous but as yet unexplained feature among OB stars. The O7.5 III(n)((f)) star xi Persei is the brightest representative of this class on the Northern hemisphere. As its prominent cyclical wind properties vary on a rotational time scale (2 or 4 days) the star has been already for a long time a serious magnetic candidate. As the cause of this enigmatic behavior non-radial pulsations and/or a surface magnetic field are suggested. We present a preliminary report on our attempts to detect a magnetic field in this star with high-resolution measurements obtained with the spectropolarimeter Narval at TBL, France during 2 observing runs of 5 nights in 2006 and 5 nights in 2007. Only upper limits could be obtained, even with the longest possible exposure times. If the star hosts a magnetic field, its surface strength should be less than about 300 G. This would still be enough to disturb the stellar wind significantly. From our new data it seems that the amplitude of the known non-radial pulsations has changed within less than a year, which needs further investigation.
Catala Claude
de Jong Jeroen A.
Donati Jean-Francois
Henrichs Hubertus F.
Kaper Lex
No associations
LandOfFree
Search for the magnetic field of the O7.5 III star xi Persei does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with Search for the magnetic field of the O7.5 III star xi Persei, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Search for the magnetic field of the O7.5 III star xi Persei will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-436889