CATACLYSMIC VARIABLES OBSERVED DURING K2 CAMPAIGNS 0 AND 1

Abstract

ABSTRACT There are 15 cataclysmic variables (CVs) observed in the first two campaigns of the K2 mission. In this paper, the eight CVs showing distinct features are analyzed in detail. Among these eight, modulations during quiescence are evident at the known orbital periods in the SU UMa stars QZ Vir and RZ Leo, and at our newly determined orbital periods for 1RXS J0632+2536 and WD 1144+011. The periodogram analysis for the quiescent light curve of QZ Vir reveals multi-period modulations and the coexistence of orbital and superhump periods. The phased orbital light curves for the other three CVs in quiescence display wide (about half cycle) and shallow (<0.5 mag) eclipse features. Besides these modulations, their quiescent light curves reveal several transient events: a sudden decrease of system light in 1RXS J0632+2536, a low-level flare-like event in QZ Vir, a short brightening event in RZ Leo, and a temporary disappearance of the orbital modulation in WD 1144+011. The two known dwarf novae UV Gem and TW Vir and the CVs USNO-B1.01144-00115322 and CSS 130516:111236:111236.7+002807 show outbursts, including one complete and three incomplete normal outbursts and two complete superoutbursts. An incomplete but typical normal outburst confirms the dwarf nova identification of the USNO-B1.01144-00115322. The one complete normal outburst in UV Gem may provide the orbital period, since its modulations are shorter than the previously observed superhump period. The superoutburst of CSS 130516:111236.7+002807, along with the corresponding superhump period, indicates that this object is an SU UMa star. The derived superhump period of CSS 130516:111236:111236.7+002807 is 1.44 hr, implying that this new SU UMa star is close to the period minimum.