Related Experiment Videos
Imaging the Haro 6-10 Infrared Companion
The Astrophysical Journal
|October 8, 1999
Summary
We studied the Haro 6-10 binary system using infrared imaging. We observed a variable nebula around the infrared companion (IRC) and a new intensity peak, suggesting scattered light from a dusty clump.
Area of Science:
- Astronomy
- Astrophysics
- Stellar Evolution
Background:
- Haro 6-10 is a low-mass pre-main-sequence binary system.
- It features a T Tauri star primary and an infrared companion (IRC) secondary, heavily obscured by dust.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the structure and variability of the nebula surrounding the IRC in Haro 6-10.
- To characterize the infrared companion and its immediate environment using high-resolution imaging.
Main Methods:
- Infrared imaging using a speckle holographic technique.
- Observations conducted over a 1-year period starting in late 1997.
- Achieved nearly diffraction-limited image quality.
Main Results:
- The IRC is embedded in a compact, irregular, and variable nebula.
- A new intensity peak was detected southwest of the IRC, possibly scattered light.
- The primary star dimmed, and the companion appeared more extended over the observation period.
Conclusions:
- The observed nebula structure contrasts with well-ordered disks around other T Tauri companions.
- The new intensity peak may indicate light scattering from a dusty clump within an outflow cavity.
- Variability in the system suggests dynamic processes within the dusty envelope.