scholarly journals Inferring the parallax of Westerlund 1 from Gaia DR2

2019 ◽  
Vol 492 (2) ◽  
pp. 2497-2509 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mojgan Aghakhanloo ◽  
Jeremiah W Murphy ◽  
Nathan Smith ◽  
John Parejko ◽  
Mariangelly Díaz-Rodríguez ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Stellar Evolution ◽  
Bayesian Model ◽  
Main Sequence ◽  
Zero Point ◽  
Star Cluster ◽  
Initial Mass ◽  
Data Release ◽  
The Galaxy ◽  
Late Stages ◽  
Gaia Dr2

ABSTRACT Westerlund 1 (Wd1) is potentially the largest star cluster in the Galaxy. That designation critically depends upon the distance to the cluster, yet the cluster is highly obscured, making luminosity-based distance estimates difficult. Using Gaia Data Release 2 (DR2) parallaxes and Bayesian inference, we infer a parallax of $0.35^{+0.07}_{-0.06}$ mas corresponding to a distance of $2.6^{+0.6}_{-0.4}$ kpc. To leverage the combined statistics of all stars in the direction of Wd1, we derive the Bayesian model for a cluster of stars hidden among Galactic field stars; this model includes the parallax zero-point. Previous estimates for the distance to Wd1 ranged from 1.0 to 5.5 kpc, although values around 5 kpc have usually been adopted. The Gaia DR2 parallaxes reduce the uncertainty from a factor of 3 to 18 per cent and rules out the most often quoted value of 5 kpc with 99 per cent confidence. This new distance allows for more accurate mass and age determinations for the stars in Wd1. For example, the previously inferred initial mass at the main-sequence turn-off was around 40 M⊙; the new Gaia DR2 distance shifts this down to about 22 M⊙. This has important implications for our understanding of the late stages of stellar evolution, including the initial mass of the magnetar and the LBV in Wd1. Similarly, the new distance suggests that the total cluster mass is about four times lower than previously calculated.

scholarly journals The Cepheid period–luminosity–metallicity relation based on Gaia DR2 data

2018 ◽  
Vol 619 ◽  
pp. A8 ◽  
Author(s):  
M. A. T. Groenewegen
Keyword(s):  
Strong Correlation ◽  
Goodness Of Fit ◽  
Zero Point ◽  
Distance Scale ◽  
Distance Modulus ◽  
Initial Sample ◽  
Classical Cepheids ◽  
Data Release ◽  
Multi Mode ◽  
Gaia Dr2

Aims. We use parallax data from the Gaia second data release (GDR2), combined with parallax data based on HIPPARCOS and HST data, to derive the period–luminosity–metallicity (PLZ) relation for Galactic classical cepheids (CCs) in the V, K, and Wesenheit WVK bands. Methods. An initial sample of 452 CCs are extracted from the literature with spectroscopically derived iron abundances. Reddening values, classifications, pulsation periods, and mean V- and K-band magnitudes are taken from the literature. Based on nine CCs with a goodness-of-fit (GOF) statistic smaller than 8 and with an accurate non-Gaia parallax (σπ comparable to that in GDR2), a parallax zero-point offset of −0.049 ± 0.018 mas is derived. Selecting a GOF statistic smaller than 8 removes about 40% of the sample most likely related due to binarity. Excluding first overtone and multi-mode cepheids and applying some other criteria reduces the sample to about 200 stars. Results. The derived PL(Z) relations depend strongly on the parallax zero-point offset. The slope of the PL relation is found to be different from the relations in the LMC at the 3σ level. Fixing the slope to the value found in the LMC leads to a distance modulus (DM) to the LMC of order 18.7 mag, larger than the canonical distance. The canonical DM of around 18.5 mag would require a parallax zero-point offset of order −0.1 mas. Given the strong correlation between zero point, period and metallicity dependence of the PL relation, and the parallax zero-point offset there is no evidence for a metallicity term in the PLZ relation. Conclusions. The GDR2 release does not allow us to improve on the current distance scale based on CCs. The value of and the uncertainty on the parallax zero-point offset leads to uncertainties of order 0.15 mag on the distance scale. The parallax zero-point offset will need to be known at a level of 3 μas or better to have a 0.01 mag or smaller effect on the zero point of the PL relation and the DM to the LMC.

scholarly journals The study of unclassified B[e] stars and candidates in the Galaxy and Magellanic Clouds†

2019 ◽  
Vol 488 (1) ◽  
pp. 1090-1110 ◽  
Author(s):  
C A H Condori ◽  
M Borges Fernandes ◽  
M Kraus ◽  
D Panoglou ◽  
C A Guerrero
Keyword(s):  
Main Sequence ◽  
Interstellar Extinction ◽  
Large Magellanic Cloud ◽  
Magellanic Cloud ◽  
Magellanic Clouds ◽  
Light Curves ◽  
Evolutionary Stage ◽  
The Third ◽  
The Galaxy ◽  
Gaia Dr2

ABSTRACT We investigated 12 unclassified B[e] stars or candidates, 8 from the Galaxy, 2 from the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC), and 2 from the Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC). Based on the analysis of high-resolution spectroscopic (FEROS) and photometric data, we confirmed the presence of the B[e] phenomenon for all objects of our sample, except for one (IRAS 07455-3143). We derived their effective temperature, spectral type, luminosity class, interstellar extinction and, using the distances from Gaia DR2, we obtained their bolometric magnitude, luminosity, and radius. Modelling of the forbidden lines present in the FEROS spectra revealed information about the kinematics and geometry of the circumstellar medium of these objects. In addition, we analysed the light curves of four stars, finding their most probable periods. The evolutionary stage of 11 stars of our sample is suggested from their position on the HR diagram, taking into account evolutionary tracks of stars with solar, LMC, and SMC metallicities. As results, we identified B and B[e] supergiants, B[e] stars probably at the main sequence or close to its end, post-AGB and HAeB[e] candidates, and A[e] stars in the main sequence or in the pre-main sequence. However, our most remarkable results are the identification of the third A[e] supergiant (ARDB 54, the first one in the LMC), and of an ‘LBV impostor’ in the SMC (LHA 115-N82).

scholarly journals Molecular Evolution from AGB Stars to Planetary Nebulae

2011 ◽  
Vol 7 (S280) ◽  
pp. 203-215 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sun Kwok
Keyword(s):  
Chemical Synthesis ◽  
Stellar Evolution ◽  
Planetary Nebulae ◽  
Active Phase ◽  
Molecular Ions ◽  
Asymptotic Giant Branch ◽  
Agb Stars ◽  
The Galaxy ◽  
Short Time ◽  
Late Stages

AbstractThe late stages of stellar evolution from the Asymptotic Giant Branch (AGB) to planetary nebulae represent the most active phase of molecular synthesis in a star's life. Over 60 molecular species, including inorganics, organics, radicals, chains, rings, and molecular ions have been detected in the circumstellar envelopes of evolved stars. Most interestingly, complex organic compounds of aromatic and aliphatic structures are synthesized over very short time intervals after the end of the AGB. Also appeared during the post-AGB evolution are the unidentified 21 and 30 μm emission features, which are believed to originate from carbonaceous compounds.The circumstellar environment is an ideal laboratory for the testing of theories of chemical synthesis. The distinct spectral behavior among AGB stars, proto-planetary nebulae (PPN), and planetary nebulae (PN) and the short evolutionary time scales that separate these stages pose severe constraints on models. In this paper, we will present an observational summary of the chemical synthesis in the late stages of stellar evolution, discuss chemical and physical processes at work, and speculate on the possible effects these chemical products have on the Galaxy and the Solar System.

scholarly journals Gaia Data Release 2

2018 ◽  
Vol 616 ◽  
pp. A10 ◽  
Author(s):  
◽  
C. Babusiaux ◽  
F. van Leeuwen ◽  
M. A. Barstow ◽  
C. Jordi ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Stellar Evolution ◽  
White Dwarfs ◽  
Stellar Population ◽  
Open Clusters ◽  
Data Release ◽  
Low Mass ◽  
Different Populations ◽  
Fine Structures ◽  
First Time ◽  
Late Stages

Context. Gaia Data Release 2 provides high-precision astrometry and three-band photometry for about 1.3 billion sources over the full sky. The precision, accuracy, and homogeneity of both astrometry and photometry are unprecedented. Aims. We highlight the power of the Gaia DR2 in studying many fine structures of the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram (HRD). Gaia allows us to present many different HRDs, depending in particular on stellar population selections. We do not aim here for completeness in terms of types of stars or stellar evolutionary aspects. Instead, we have chosen several illustrative examples. Methods. We describe some of the selections that can be made in Gaia DR2 to highlight the main structures of the Gaia HRDs. We select both field and cluster (open and globular) stars, compare the observations with previous classifications and with stellar evolutionary tracks, and we present variations of the Gaia HRD with age, metallicity, and kinematics. Late stages of stellar evolution such as hot subdwarfs, post-AGB stars, planetary nebulae, and white dwarfs are also analysed, as well as low-mass brown dwarf objects. Results. The Gaia HRDs are unprecedented in both precision and coverage of the various Milky Way stellar populations and stellar evolutionary phases. Many fine structures of the HRDs are presented. The clear split of the white dwarf sequence into hydrogen and helium white dwarfs is presented for the first time in an HRD. The relation between kinematics and the HRD is nicely illustrated. Two different populations in a classical kinematic selection of the halo are unambiguously identified in the HRD. Membership and mean parameters for a selected list of open clusters are provided. They allow drawing very detailed cluster sequences, highlighting fine structures, and providing extremely precise empirical isochrones that will lead to more insight in stellar physics. Conclusions. Gaia DR2 demonstrates the potential of combining precise astrometry and photometry for large samples for studies in stellar evolution and stellar population and opens an entire new area for HRD-based studies.

scholarly journals The LMC Globular Cluster Hodge 11 (=SL 868)

1984 ◽  
Vol 108 ◽  
pp. 43-44
Author(s):  
L. L. Stryker ◽  
J. M. Nemec ◽  
J. E. Hesser ◽  
R.D. McClure
Keyword(s):  
Globular Clusters ◽  
Main Sequence ◽  
Star Cluster ◽  
Open Clusters ◽  
Rr Lyrae Stars ◽  
Rr Lyrae ◽  
Magnitude Diagram ◽  
The Galaxy ◽  
Lyrae Stars ◽  
Termination Point

The age of the star cluster H11 has been controversial for a number of years. The color-magnitude diagram (CMD) of Walker (1979) to V=21.5 was interpreted as an “…evolved main-sequence, whose termination point corresponds to an age of about 0.6 Gyr, but with a giant branch which is displaced blueward by about Δ (B-V)o=0.4 from the positions of the giant branches of open clusters of similar age in our Galaxy.” On the other hand, the integrated colors are similar to those of metal-poor globular clusters in the Galaxy (Freeman and Gascoigne 1977, and references therein), and “…incompatible with an age of say 0.3 Gyr.” Searle, Wilkinson and Bagnuolo (1980) classify it as Group VII, the oldest group. The system has no RR Lyrae stars (Graham and Nemec 1984).

scholarly journals Fast-rotating giant stars behind the Coma Berenices star cluster

2020 ◽  
Vol 497 (3) ◽  
pp. 2562-2568
Author(s):  
Estefanía Casal ◽  
Matilde Fernández ◽  
Emilio J Alfaro ◽  
Víctor Casanova ◽  
Ángel Tobaruela
Keyword(s):  
Main Sequence ◽  
Star Cluster ◽  
Stellar Clusters ◽  
Main Sequence Stars ◽  
Cluster Membership ◽  
Giant Stars ◽  
Data Release ◽  
Magnitude Diagram ◽  
M Stars ◽  
Fast Rotating

ABSTRACT In the frame of a study of the empirical isochrones of young stellar clusters, we have carried out BVIc Johnson–Cousins photometry of a sample of K and M stars of the Coma Berenices star cluster. All these stars have known rotational periods. Our main goal is to get a valuable reference on the colour–magnitude diagram, Mv versus B − V, for stars with ages within 400–800 Myr. For this purpose, we obtained BVIc photometry with an average upper limit for the precision of about 0.025 mag and used parallaxes from the Gaia Data Release 2. We found that one-third of our sample is located well above the cluster main sequence and these stars are confirmed as background giants by their radial velocities in the Gaia Data Release 2. This misclassification shows that giants with short-surface rotational periods can mimic main-sequence stars if they are located at the appropriate distance. We recommend caution when using rotational periods in order to determine cluster membership. Besides, the gyrochronology technique should be used only when the luminosity class of the stars is well known. Finally, our cleared sample supports an age of ∼600 Myr for Coma Berenices, rather than an age of ∼800 Myr.

scholarly journals II Zw 40 – 30 Doradus on Steroids

2016 ◽  
Vol 12 (S329) ◽  
pp. 322-326
Author(s):  
Claus Leitherer ◽  
Janice C. Lee ◽  
Emily M. Levesque
Keyword(s):  
Gas Phase ◽  
Stellar Evolution ◽  
Dwarf Galaxy ◽  
Star Cluster ◽  
Ultraviolet Spectrum ◽  
Magnitude Comparison ◽  
The Galaxy ◽  
Order Of Magnitude ◽  
Blue Compact Dwarf Galaxy ◽  
30 Doradus

AbstractWe obtained HST COS G140L spectra of the enigmatic nearby blue compact dwarf galaxy II Zw 40. The galaxy hosts a nuclear super star cluster embedded in a radio-bright nebula, similar to those observed in the related blue compact dwarfs NGC 5253 and Henize 2-10. The ultraviolet spectrum of II Zw 40 is exceptional in terms of the strength of He II 1640, O III] 1666 and C III] 1909. We determined reddening, age, and the cluster mass from the ultraviolet data. The super nebula and the ionizing cluster exceed the ionizing luminosity and stellar mass of the local benchmark 30 Doradus by an order of magnitude. Comparison with stellar evolution models accounting for rotation reveals serious short-comings: these models do not account for the presence of Wolf-Rayet-like stars at young ages observed in II Zw 40. Photoionization modeling is used to probe the origin of the nebular lines and determine gas phase abundances. C/O is solar, in agreement with the result of the stellar-wind modeling.

scholarly journals Astrometric study of Gaia DR2 stars for interstellar communication

2020 ◽  
Vol 19 (4) ◽  
pp. 308-313
Author(s):  
Naoki Seto ◽  
Kazumi Kashiyama
Keyword(s):  
High Precision ◽  
Main Sequence ◽  
Opening Angle ◽  
Main Sequence Stars ◽  
Extraterrestrial Intelligence ◽  
Data Release ◽  
Interstellar Communication ◽  
Host Stars ◽  
Gaia Dr2 ◽  
Better Than

AbstractWe discuss the prospects of high precision pointing of our transmitter to habitable planets around Galactic main sequence stars. For an efficient signal delivery, the future sky positions of the host stars should be appropriately extrapolated with accuracy better than the beam opening angle Θ of the transmitter. Using the latest data release (DR2) of Gaia, we estimate the accuracy of the extrapolations individually for 4.7 × 107 FGK stars, and find that the total number of targets could be ~107 for the accuracy goal better than 1″. Considering the pairwise nature of communication, our study would be instructive also for SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence), not only for sending signals outward.

Chemical enrichment of galaxies as the result of organic synthesis in evolved stars

2018 ◽  
Vol 14 (S343) ◽  
pp. 443-444
Author(s):  
Sun Kwok ◽  
SeyedAbdolreza Sadjadi ◽  
Yong Zhang
Keyword(s):  
Interstellar Medium ◽  
Organic Synthesis ◽  
Stellar Evolution ◽  
Solar Nebula ◽  
Spectroscopic Observations ◽  
Chemical Enrichment ◽  
Evolved Stars ◽  
The Galaxy ◽  
Organic Particles ◽  
Late Stages

AbstractInfrared spectroscopic observations have shown that complex organics with mixed aromatic-aliphatic structures are synthesized in large quantities during the late stages of stellar evolution. These organics are ejected into the interstellar medium and spread across the Galaxy. Due to the sturdy structures of these organic particles, they can survive through long journeys across the Galaxy under strong UV background and shock conditions. The implications that stellar organics were embedded in the primordial solar nebula is discussed.

scholarly journals The Gaia DR2 parallax zero-point: hierarchical modelling of red clump stars

2020 ◽  
Vol 493 (3) ◽  
pp. 4367-4381 ◽  
Author(s):  
Victor C Chan ◽  
Jo Bovy
Keyword(s):  
Zero Point ◽  
Absolute Magnitude ◽  
Matched Sample ◽  
Hierarchical Modelling ◽  
Data Release ◽  
Evolution Experiment ◽  
Red Clump ◽  
Photometric Measurements ◽  
Intrinsic Scatter ◽  
Gaia Dr2

ABSTRACT The systematic offset of Gaia parallaxes has been widely reported with Gaia’s second data release, and it is expected to persist in future Gaia data. In order to use Gaia parallaxes to infer distances to high precision, we develop a hierarchical probabilistic model to determine the Gaia parallax zero-point offset along with the calibration of an empirical model for luminosity of red clump stars by combining astrometric and photometric measurements. Using a cross-matched sample of red clump stars from the Apache Point Observatory Galactic Evolution Experiment and Gaia Data Release 2 (DR2), we report the parallax zero-point offset in DR2 to be $\varpi _0 = -48 \pm 1\,\mu \text{as}$. We infer the red clump absolute magnitude to be −1.622 ± 0.004 in Ks, 0.435 ± 0.004 in G, −1.019 ± 0.004 in J, and −1.516 ± 0.004 in H. The intrinsic scatter of the red clump is ∼0.09 mag in J, H, and Ks, or ∼ 0.12 mag in G. We tailor our models to accommodate more complex analyses such as investigating the variations of the parallax zero-point with each source’s observed magnitude, observed colour, and sky position. In particular, we find fluctuations of the zero-point across the sky to be of order or less than a few 10s of $\mu \text{as}$.

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