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M.R. Templeton (AAVSO), L.A. Willson (Iowa State University)
We investigate the small class of long-period Mira variables exhibiting two distinct maxima during each pulsation cycle, and compare them to the more general case of Miras with humps or bumps in their light curve. We present a list of known or suspected Miras with double maxima and their light curves, describe their general characteristics, and consider competing models for explaining the extra bumps or maxima. If the double maxima are due to resonances between modes, then they will be useful for studying internal characteristics of Miras. If, on the other hand, the cause is atmospheric filtering where the pulsation period is longer than the acoustic cutoff period, then their utility will be for distinguishing among atmospheric models.
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Bulletin of the American Astronomical Society, 36 5
© 2004. The American Astronomical Society.