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[vsnet-campaign-nova 825] V1039 Cen - call for observations
Date: Thu, 7 Feb 2002 16:24:45 +1100 (EST)
From: Alon Retter <retter@Physics.usyd.edu.au>
Subject: [vsnet-campaign-nova 0] V1039 Cen - call for observations
Dear observers (both amateurs and professionals),
Nova V1039 Cen 2001 has shown strong oscillations since its discovery
by Liller last October. However, the recent cover of the nova is very
weak, and it is hard to understand whether these features are the
famous qausi-periodic oscillations during the transition phase (e.g.
GK Per, V603 Aql, LZ Mus, V1494 Aql), or that they are random
variations. The classification of V1039 Cen (and other novae) to
this small (~10-15% of novae) subclass of novae is quite important.
Retter, Liller & Garradd (1998) predicted that the transition phase
in classical novae is connected with intermediate polars, CVs whose
primary white dwarf has a moderate magnetic field, and spins around
its axis with a period shorter than the orbital period). Chandra
observations on two recent novae (V1494 Aql & V382 Vel) seem to
support this prediction. Therefore, I urge observers that can
observe this object (V=13.4 - 3/2/02) to do it on a nightly basis
to trace the oscillations. If you have a CCD, you may also want to
try fast photometry to find its spin period (typically of the order
of tens of minutes). We are preparing a DDT proposal to Chandra
to observe V1039 Cen, and you can really help for establishing the
scientific case.
This comment is relevant to other novae as well. Denser cover is
desired. In example - is there anyone still observing Nova V382 Vel
1999?
Obviously I don't mean the amazing (possible nova) V838 Mon that has
been recently observed any 3 sec. or so!
Regards,
Alon
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Dr. Alon Retter Tel. (work) +61-2-9351-4058
School of Physics Fax (work) +61-2-9351-7726
University of Sydney -------------------------------------------
Sydney, 2006 'As a scientist I don't believe myself, so
Australia why should I believe you?' (A.R. 1965-2085)
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