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The variability of eta Car: A tool for the LBV phenomenon

  • Massive Star Atmospheres and Stellar Winds
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Abstract

We discuss the historical light curve of the most peculiar superluminous star η Car, and the spectroscopic variations during the last 100 y. After the nova-like spectral evolution following the 1889 light maximum, the star underwent many shell episodes which were characterized by a large fading of the higher ionization emission lines. We describe the most recent 1992 event when the Hei and [Nii] emission lines nearly faded out, and a broad P Cygni absorption appeared in the Hi and Hei lines. A recurrence time of about 5 years is suggested from the times of the spectroscopic episodes and the IR light curve. The results are discussed in the light of possible models.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Instituto Astronomico e Geofsico da USP, Av. Miguel Stefano, 4200, Sao Paulo, Brazil

    A. Damineli Neto

  2. Istituto di Astrofisica Spaziale, CNR, Via Enrico Fermi 21, 00044, Frascati, Italy

    R. Viotti & A. Cassatella

  3. Osservatorio Astronomico, Via del Parco Mellini 84, 00136, Roma

    G. B. Baratta

Authors
  1. A. Damineli Neto
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  2. R. Viotti
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  3. A. Cassatella
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  4. G. B. Baratta
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Damineli Neto, A., Viotti, R., Cassatella, A. et al. The variability of eta Car: A tool for the LBV phenomenon. Space Sci Rev 66, 211–214 (1993). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00771068

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