On the nature of the cool component of MWC 560

Context: MWC 560 (V694 Mon) is one of the most enigmatic symbiotic system with a very active accretion-powered hot component. Such activity can be supported only by a luminous asymptotic giant branch star, i.e. a Mira or SR variable, with a high mass-loss rate. It is also a very unusual jet source because the jet axis lies practically parallel to the line of sight.
Aims: The aims of our study are the determination of the evolutionary status of the cool component of MWC 560.
Methods: Our methods involve analysis of near-IR JHKL and optical light curves.
Results: The cool component of MWC 560 pulsates with a period of ~340 days, and it is probably a red SR variable on the thermally pulsing AGB. The high mass-loss rate expected for such a star is sufficient to power the observed activity of the hot companion.

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