The inhomogeneous circumstellar envelope of Rigel (beta Orionis A)
Abstract
We report on time series Hα profiles of the late B-type supergiant Rigel (beta Orionis A). Our observations indicate the presence of variable and asymmetric outflows and infalls of matter. We have recorded a blueshifted high-velocity absorption component in Hα almost simultaneously with Kaufer et al. The final part of this extraordinary event has been observed. We have found that blueshifted high-velocity absorption completely disappeared in one month, and, during another, redshifted strong absorption appeared at 50kms^-1. Based on our observations and those reported in the literature, we propose extended rotating magnetic structures (closed loops) in the mantle of Rigel. The fundamental parameters of the star are discussed.
- Publication:
-
Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society
- Pub Date:
- September 1997
- DOI:
- Bibcode:
- 1997MNRAS.290..521I
- Keywords:
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- LINE: PROFILES;
- STARS: EARLY-TYPE;
- STARS: FUNDAMENTAL PARAMETERS;
- STARS: INDIVIDUAL: RIGEL;
- STARS: MASS-LOSS;
- SUPERGIANTS