Document Type
Article
Publication Date
March 2011
Description
The B0.2 V magnetic star τ Sco stands out from the larger population of massive OB stars due to its high X-ray activity, peculiar wind diagnostics and highly complex magnetic field. This Letter presents the discovery of the first two τ Sco analogues – HD 66665 and HD 63425, identified by the striking similarity of their ultraviolet (UV) spectra to that of τ Sco. ESPaDOnS spectropolarimetric observations were secured by the Magnetism in Massive Stars CFHT Large Program, in order to characterize the stellar and magnetic properties of these stars. cmfgen modelling of optical ESPaDOnS spectra and archived IUE UV spectra showed that these stars have stellar parameters similar to those of τ Sco. A magnetic field of similar surface strength is found on both stars, reinforcing the connection between the presence of a magnetic field and wind peculiarities. However, additional phase-resolved observations will be required in order to assess the potential complexity of the magnetic fields and verify if the wind anomalies are linked to this property.
Citation Information
Petit, V.; Massa, D.; Marcolinino, W.; Wade, G.; and Ignace, Richard. 2011. Discovery of the first τ Sco Analogues: HD 66665 and HD 63425.. Monthly Notices Letters of the Royal Astronomical Society. Vol.412(1). https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1745-3933.2010.01002.x ISSN: 1745-3933
Copyright Statement
This article has been accepted for publication in Monthly Notices Letters of the Royal Astronomical Society © 2011 The Authors. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Royal Astronomical Society. All rights reserved. doi: 10.1111/j.1745-3933.2010.01002.x