The Dusty Nova V1065 Centauri (Nova Cen 2007): a Spectroscopic Analysis of Abundances and Dust Properties
Abstract
We examine the ejecta evolution of the classical nova V1065 Centauri, constructing a detailed picture of the system based on spectrophotometric observations obtained from 9 to approximately 900 days post-outburst with extensive coverage from optical to mid-infrared wavelengths. We estimate a reddening toward the system of E(B-V) = 0.5 ± 0.1, based upon the B - V color and analysis of the Balmer decrement, and derive a distance estimate of 8.7+2.8 -2.1 kpc. The optical spectral evolution is classified as P o fe N ne A o according to the CTIO Nova Classification system of Williams et al. Photoionization modeling yields absolute abundance values by number, relative to solar of He/H = 1.6 ± 0.3, N/H = 144 ± 34, O/H = 58 ± 18, and Ne/H = 316 ± 58 for the ejecta. We derive an ejected gas mass of Mg = (1.6 ± 0.2) × 10-4 M sun. The infrared excess at late epochs in the evolution of the nova arises from dust condensed in the ejecta composed primarily of silicate grains. We estimate a total dust mass, Md , of order (0.2-3.7) × 10-7 M sun, inferred from modeling the spectral energy distribution observed with the Spitzer IRS and Gemini-South GNIRS spectrometers. Based on the speed class, neon abundance, and the predominance of silicate dust, we classify V1065 Cen as an ONe-type classical nova.
- Publication:
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The Astronomical Journal
- Pub Date:
- November 2010
- DOI:
- 10.1088/0004-6256/140/5/1347
- Bibcode:
- 2010AJ....140.1347H
- Keywords:
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- circumstellar matter;
- novae;
- cataclysmic variables;
- stars: individual: V1065 Cen Nova Cen 2007