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E. Hesselbach (Alfred U. and Maria Mitchell Obs.), G. C. Clayton (Louisiana State U. and Maria Mitchell Obs.), P. S. Smith (Steward Obs.)
Previous observers have suggested that the lightcurve activity of the stars HAD V98 and HD 172468 may indicate that they are R Coronae Borealis (RCB) stars. The Harvard photographic plate collection was searched for plates containing these stars, and their activity was examined between 1899 and 1989. No fadings were found for either star. However, for HAD V98 in particular, coverage was not complete enough to rule out classification as an RCB star. Additional photometry for both stars was collected from the literature, VSNET and the AAVSO. New photometry was obtained using the 31in telescope at Lowell Observatory. Low resolution spectra were also obtained, using Steward Observatory's 90in telescope on Kitt Peak. Based on the spectra and long-term lightcurve, we conclude that HAD V98 is indeed an RCB star, while HD 172468 is not. The classification of HD 172468 remains to be determined. This project was supported by the NSF/REU grant AST-0097694 and the Nantucket Maria Mitchell Association.
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Bulletin of the American Astronomical Society, 34, #4
© 2002. The American Astronomical Soceity.