Variability and pulsations in the Be star 66 Ophiuchi
Abstract
66 Oph is a Be star seen under a moderate inclination angle that shows strong variability from UV to IR wavelengths. A concise review of long-term variability history is given. High resolution, high S/N spectroscopic observations obtained in 1997, 1998 and 2001 and spectropolarimetric observations obtained in 2000 are presented. These observations occurred during a long-term decrease of Hα intensity. Fundamental parameters of the star have been revisited from Barbier-Chalonge-Divan (BCD) calibrations. New V sin i values are obtained using Fourier transforms applied to observed helium lines and a rotational frequency f_rot = 1.29 c d-1 is determined. Time series analysis and Fourier Doppler Imaging (FDI) of He I lines (4713, 4921, 5876 and 6678 Å) lead for the first time to the detection of multi-periodicity in 66 Oph. The two main frequencies found are f = 2.22 c d-1 and f = 4.05 c d-1 . They are attributed to non-radial pulsations and can be associated with mode degree l = 2 and l = 3, respectively. Inspection of Stokes V profiles suggests the presence of a weak Zeeman signature but further observations are needed to confirm the detection of a magnetic field in 66 Oph. Based on observations taken at OHP and Pic du Midi Observatory (France), at MBT/LNA (Brazil) and on Brazilian observing time at La Silla (ESO, Chile).
- Publication:
-
Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Pub Date:
- October 2002
- DOI:
- 10.1051/0004-6361:20021105
- Bibcode:
- 2002A&A...394..137F
- Keywords:
-
- stars: emission-line;
- Be;
- stars: activity;
- stars: individual: 66 Oph;
- stars: oscillations;
- stars: magnetic field