[vsnet-alert 6319] WZ Sge: rapid fading!

[Makoto Uemura <uemura@kusastro.kyoto-u.ac.jp>]

WZ Sge: rapid fading!

    As suggested in the previous alerts, we have confirmed 
the rapid fading of WZ Sge.

    B. Martin has kindly sent us his data on Augsut 16/17, 
which clearly shows the rapid fading with an apparent decline 
rate of 1.16 mag/d.  In the light curve taken by S. Kiyota just 
before this phase, we can see superhumps with amplitudes of 
about 0.15mag.  On the other hand, the Martin's new data does not show 
such prominent humps while it shows some hints of modulations.

    The Kyoto team is now having a run on WZ Sge.  The current 
magnitude is ~11.8 mag.

    Time-series observations are strongly urged to reveal the 
evolution of superhumps and/or orbital modulations during this phase.    
Although the object is fading, however, the historical event of WZ Sge 
will continue.  The object will probably show re-brightening events 
as the other WZ Sge type stars.  In the case of AL Com, the temporary 
dip lasted only for a couple of days.  So, as well as photometry, 
spectroscopic monitoring during these few days can give enormous 
information about the physics of the re-brightening and accretion disk.

    Observations are strongly encouraged.

Regards,
Makoto Uemura
VSNET collaboration team

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