UGPS J194310+183851: an unusual optical and X-ray faint cataclysmic variable?

Abstract

The growing number of multi-epoch optical and infrared sky surveys are uncovering unprecedented numbers of new variable stars, of an increasing number of types. The short interval between observations in adjacent near-infrared filters in the UKIDSS Galactic Plane Survey (UGPS) allows for the discovery of variability on the time-scale of minutes. We report on the nature of one such object, through the use of optical spectroscopy, time series photometry, and targeted X-ray observations. We propose that UGPS J194310.32+183851.8 is a magnetic cataclysmic variable star of novel character, probably featuring a longer than average spin period and an orbital period likely to be shorter than the period gap (i.e. Porb < 2 h). We reason that the star is likely a member of the short-period intermediate-polar subclass that exists below this period boundary, but with the additional feature that system’s spectral energy distribution is fainter and redder than other members of the group.

Document Details

Document Type
Pub Defense Publication
Publication Date
Jun 21, 2022
Source ID
10.1093/mnras/stac1718

Entities

People

  • C T Britt
  • C. S. Morris
  • J Strader
  • Janet E. Drew
  • Nathan Miller
  • P. W. Lucas
  • S J Swihart
  • Thomas J. Maccarone
  • William Cooper
  • Zhen Guo

Organizations

  • CONICYT
  • California Department of Pesticide Regulation
  • Michigan State University
  • National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine
  • National Aeronautics and Space Administration
  • National Fund for Scientific and Technological Development
  • National Institute for Astrophysics
  • National Science Foundation
  • Nuclear Regulatory Commission
  • Science and Technology Facilities Council
  • Space Telescope Science Institute
  • Texas Tech University
  • United States Naval Research Laboratory
  • University College London
  • University of Hertfordshire
  • University of Valparaíso

Tags

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Astronomy/Astrophysics
  • Theoretical Analysis.

Technology Areas

  • Space