Discovery, photometry, and astrometry of 49 classical nova candidates in M 81 galaxy
Abstract
Aims: This paper reports on a search for new classical nova candidates in the M 81 galaxy based on archival, as well as recent, new images.
Methods: We used images from 1999-2007 to search for optical transients in M 81. The positions of the identified classical nova candidates were used to study their spatial distribution. Kolmogorov-Smirnov test (KS) and bottom-to-top (BTR) ratio diagnostic were used to analyze the nova candidate distribution and differentiate between the disk and the bulge populations.
Results: In total, 49 classical nova candidates were discovered. In this study, we present the precise positions and photometry of these objects, plus the photometry of an additional 9 classical nova candidates found by Neill & Shara (2004, AJ, 127, 816). With our large sample, we find a different spatial distribution of classical nova candidates when compared to the results of earlier studies. Also, an extraordinarily bright nova was found and studied in detail.
- Publication:
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Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Pub Date:
- December 2008
- DOI:
- 10.1051/0004-6361:200809592
- arXiv:
- arXiv:0809.5276
- Bibcode:
- 2008A&A...492..301H
- Keywords:
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- galaxies: individual: M 81;
- stars: binaries: close;
- stars: novae;
- cataclysmic variables;
- Astrophysics
- E-Print:
- Accepted for publication in Astronomy &