Monitoring of the Symbiotic Variable RT Cru Requested

Active Dates: Jan. 27, 2012 – Jan. 27, 2012


Abstract:

The symbiotic variable RT Cru has brightened in hard x-rays. AAVSO assistance has been requested in monitoring RT Cru both now and in the future to observe any unusual optical activity. The Swift/BAT hard X-ray light curve indicates gradual brightening over several years.

Justification:

The hard X-ray emission suggests the accreting white dwarf is near the Chandrasekhar limit and might be a candidate supernova Type-Ia progenitor. Fast photometry and optical spectroscopy could help interpret the X-ray brightening.

Requested Data Types:

Photometry, Spectroscopy



Targets
Name Magnitude Variability Type Photometry Notes Spectroscopy Notes
RT Cru 10.90 ZAND

Cadence: Not Specified

Precision: 100

Cadence: Not Specified

Resolution: 250

Desired SNR: 100


Spectroscopy Lines:

No spectroscopy lines provided

Photometry Filters:

No photometry filters provided

Comparison Stars:

No comparison stars provided


Co-Authorship

Observers are not eligible for co-authorship.

Additional Observer Input:

Not provided

Additional Submission Location:

Not provided


Forum URL

N/A


Notes:

Principal Investigator: Dr. Jeno Sokoloski; Imported Campaign (Alert Notice #451)