Searching for Periodic Light Variability in Proto-Planetary Nebulae Candidates
Faculty Sponsor
Dr. Bruce Hrivnak
College
Arts and Sciences
Discipline(s)
Physics and Astronomy
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Symposium Date
Spring 5-4-2017
Abstract
The purpose of this research is to find periodic light variability in proto-planetary nebulae (PPNe) candidates. These are Sun-like stars that have expanded into a red giant and then ejected their outer layers. Pulsations in the star causes the light variability we observe, and the period of these pulsations can give us key information about the star itself. Using measurements of brightness over many years, the light curves can be analyzed to search for periodicity. Six PPNe candidates were studied in the southern-hemisphere for analysis. They were observed remotely with the SARA consortium telescope in Chile over an interval of five to six years and light curves were obtained from the data. These light curves were then analyzed by using a period searching program based on a Fourier analysis of the data. Of the six candidates, five were found to vary and three had periodic light variation. Periods range from 30 to 90 days. This is consistent with the periods of about 20 other previously studied and published PPNe. This research was supported by grants from the National Science Foundation and the Indiana Space Grant Consortium.
Recommended Citation
Willenbrink, Kathryn, "Searching for Periodic Light Variability in Proto-Planetary Nebulae Candidates" (2017). Symposium on Undergraduate Research and Creative Expression (SOURCE). 597.
https://scholar.valpo.edu/cus/597
