Observation and Solution of the Light Curve for a W Ursae Majoris Eclipsing Binary Star System.
Abstract
This project has approached the study of eclipsing binary star systems from both the observational and the theoretical stand points. Observations of eclipsing binary stars U Pegasi and AZ Virginis of the W Ursae Majoris contact binary type have been made. The method for solving an eclipsing binary system's light curve for the system's elements (the radii, luminosity and limb darkening coefficients of the component stars and the inclination of the orbital plane) - originally developed by Thomas B. Horak - has been programmed for an electronic computer. Details and proceedings are described. After some modification, Horak's method for solving the light curve is shown to be at least as accurate as the classical methods and yet vastly superior to previous approaches in the speed and ease with which a solution may be obtained. A solution for the recently observed binary system VW Bootis is also obtained which appears superior to the only previous solution. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 23, 1975
- Accession Number
- ADA015957
Entities
People
- Bruce E. Miller
Organizations
- United States Naval Academy