MERLIN and VLBI Radio Imaging of RS Ophiuchi Following the 2006 Outburst

T. J. O’Brien, R. J. Beswick, M. F. Bode, Stewart Eyres, T. W. B. Muxlow, S. T. Garrington, R. W. Porcas, A. Evans, R. J. Davis

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

We describe a programme of high-resolution radio imaging of RS Ophiuchi (2006) using MERLIN, VLBA and the EVN. The first VLBA image, from two weeks after the outburst, shows an almost circular ring which is much brighter on its eastern side. Further high-resolution imaging with VLBA and the EVN shows the structure elongate east-west and become rather more complex. Regular MERLIN imaging over the same period also shows a structure which becomes more extended east-west, similar to that seen in later Hubble Space Telescope imaging of the 2006 outburst and in a radio image made following the 1985 outburst. The north-south and east-west expansion speeds are estimated to be 0.8 and 1.4 mas day−1 respectively. The observed structure is interpreted as a bipolar shell or jet formed by asymmetries in the wind from the red giant and/or the ejecta from the white dwarf.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationRS Ophiuchi (2006) and the Recurrent Nova Phenomenon
Subtitle of host publicationAstronomical Society of the Pacific Conference Series
EditorsA. Evans, M. Bode, T. J. O'Brien, M. J. Darnley
PublisherAstronomical Society of the Pacific
Pages239
Volume401
ISBN (Electronic)978-1-58381-675-2
ISBN (Print)978-1-58381-674-5
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2008
EventRS OPHIUCHI (2006) AND THE RECURRENT NOVA PHENOMENON: Proceedings of a workshop held at Keele University, 12-14 June 2007 - Keele University, Keele, United Kingdom
Duration: 12 Jun 200714 Jun 2007

Workshop

WorkshopRS OPHIUCHI (2006) AND THE RECURRENT NOVA PHENOMENON
Country/TerritoryUnited Kingdom
CityKeele
Period12/06/0714/06/07

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