Evidence for Binarity in the Luminous Blue Variable Candidate Hen 3-519

Additional Authors

Dr. Christi Erba, Space Telescope Science Institute, Baltimore, Maryland

Abstract

Luminous Blue Variables (LBVs) are evolved massive stars that undergo extreme mass loss, influencing their eventual fate as neutron stars or black holes. Among them, Hen 3-519 stands out due to its unusual spectral features. This study presents new polarimetric observations of Hen 3-519, revealing a distinctive loop pattern in the Stokes Q-U diagram, which strongly suggests the presence of a binary companion. Identifying binaries among LBVs is important for understanding how these massive stars evolve. By analyzing archival linear polarization data, we explore the possible orbital properties of Hen 3-519’s companion and its role in shaping the surrounding stellar wind. These findings contribute to the growing evidence that binary interactions play a significant role in the evolution of massive stars, particularly in the transition from LBVs to Wolf-Rayet stars.

Start Time

16-4-2025 1:30 PM

End Time

16-4-2025 2:30 PM

Room Number

219

Presentation Type

Oral Presentation

Presentation Subtype

UG Orals

Presentation Category

Health and STEM

Faculty Mentor

Richard Ignace

This document is currently not available here.

Share

COinS
 
Apr 16th, 1:30 PM Apr 16th, 2:30 PM

Evidence for Binarity in the Luminous Blue Variable Candidate Hen 3-519

219

Luminous Blue Variables (LBVs) are evolved massive stars that undergo extreme mass loss, influencing their eventual fate as neutron stars or black holes. Among them, Hen 3-519 stands out due to its unusual spectral features. This study presents new polarimetric observations of Hen 3-519, revealing a distinctive loop pattern in the Stokes Q-U diagram, which strongly suggests the presence of a binary companion. Identifying binaries among LBVs is important for understanding how these massive stars evolve. By analyzing archival linear polarization data, we explore the possible orbital properties of Hen 3-519’s companion and its role in shaping the surrounding stellar wind. These findings contribute to the growing evidence that binary interactions play a significant role in the evolution of massive stars, particularly in the transition from LBVs to Wolf-Rayet stars.