2 research outputs found
The variable stellar wind of Rigel probed at high spatial and spectral resolution
We present a spatially resolved, high-spectral resolution (R=12000) K-band
temporal monitoring of Rigel using AMBER at the VLTI. Rigel was observed in the
Bracket Gamma line and its nearby continuum in 2006-2007, and 2009-2010. These
unprecedented observations were complemented by contemporaneous optical
high-resolution spectroscopy. We analyse the near-IR spectra and visibilities
with the 1D non-LTE radiative-transfer code CMFGEN. The differential and
closure phase signal exhibit asymmetries that are interpreted as perturbations
of the wind. A systematic visibility decrease is observed across the Bracket
Gamma. During the 2006-2007 period the Bracket Gamma and likely the continuum
forming regions were larger than in the 2009-2010 epoch. Using CMFGEN, we infer
a mass-loss rate change of about 20% between the two epochs. We further find
time variations in the differential visibilities and phases. The 2006-2007
period is characterized by noticeable variations of the differential
visibilities in Doppler position and width and by weak variations in
differential and closure phase. The 2009-2010 period is much more quiet with
virtually no detectable variations in the dispersed visibilities but a strong
S-shape signal is observed in differential phase coinciding with a strong
ejection event discernible in the optical spectra. The differential phase
signal that is sometimes detected is reminiscent of the signal computed from
hydrodynamical models of corotating interaction regions. For some epochs the
temporal evolution of the signal suggests the rotation of the circumstellar
structures.Comment: Paper accepted in the A&A journa