Multi-epoch interferometric observations of the Be star ζ Tau
Abstract
We present interferometric observations of the Be star ζ Tau obtained using the MIRC beam combiner at the CHARA Array during four epochs in 2007-2009. Fitting a geometric model to the data reveals a nearly edge-on disk with a FWHM of ~1.8 milli-arcsec in the H-band. The non-zero closure phases indicate an asymmetry in the brightness distribution. Interestingly, when combining our results with previously published interferometric observations of ζ Tau, we find a correlation between the position angle of the disk and the spectroscopic V/R ratio, suggesting that the tilt of the disk might be precessing. This work is part of a multi-year monitoring campaign to investigate the development and outward motion of asymmetric structures in the disks of Be stars.
- Publication:
-
Active OB Stars: Structure, Evolution, Mass Loss, and Critical Limits
- Pub Date:
- July 2011
- DOI:
- 10.1017/S1743921311011033
- Bibcode:
- 2011IAUS..272..424S
- Keywords:
-
- techniques: interferometric;
- circumstellar matter;
- stars: emission-line;
- Be