Star KIC Research Articles

Magnetic activity, differential rotation, and dynamo action in the pulsating F9IV star KIC 5955122

We present photometric spot modeling of the nearly four-year long light-curve of the Kepler target KIC 5955122 in terms of persisting dark circular surface features. With a Bayesian technique, we produced a plausible surface map that shows dozens of small spots. After some artifacts are removed, the residuals are at $\pm 0.16$\,mmag. The shortest rotational period found is $P = 16.4 \pm 0.2$ days. The equator-to-pole extrapolated differential rotation is $0.25 \pm 0.02$ rad/d. The spots are roughly half as bright as the unperturbed stellar photosphere. Spot latitudes are restricted to the zone $\pm 60^\circ$ latitude. There is no indication for any near-pole spots. In addition, the p-mode pulsations enabled us to determine the evolutionary status of the star, the extension of the convective zone, and its radius and mass. We discuss the possibility that the clear signature of active regions in the light curve of the F9IV star KIC 5955122 is produced by a flux-transport dynamo action at the base of the convection zone. In particular, we argue that this star has evolved from an active to a quiet status during the Q0--Q16 period of observation, and we predict, according to our dynamo model, that the characteristic activity cycle is of the order of the solar one.

Time-resolved spectroscopy of the rapidly oscillating Ap star KIC 10195926★

We report an analysis of high time resolution spectra of the chemically peculiar Ap star KIC 10195926 obtained with the Subaru telescope. We find that the star has low overabundances of rare earth elements compared with other rapidly oscillating Ap stars. We found only upper limits for pulsations from spectral lines of rare earth and other chemical elements. Pulsation was found only for the narrow core of the Hα line with an amplitude of 171 ± 41舁m舁s−1 and with the frequency corresponding to photometric frequency obtained from Kepler observations.

Stochastic pulsations in the subdwarf-B star KIC 2991276

The subdwarf-B star KIC 2991276 was monitored with the Kepler spacecraft for nearly three years. Two pulsation modes with periods of 122 and 132 s are clearly detected in the Fourier spectrum, as well as a few weaker modes with periods ranging from 118 to 216 s. Unlike the other subdwarf-B pulsators with similar high-quality Kepler lightcurves, the modes in KIC 2991276 do not display long-term coherency. Rather, their pulsation amplitudes vary substantially in amplitude and phase on timescales of about a month, sometimes disappearing completely. Thus, while the pulsations are seen to have amplitudes of up to 1.4% in individual months, the amplitude spectrum of the full lightcurve shows a broad, messy peak with an amplitude of only 0.23%. Such stochastic oscillations are normal in the Sun and other cool stars with solar-like pulsations and have been suspected for V361-Hya pulsators, but thanks to the exceptional coverage of Kepler data, this is the first unambiguous case established for a hot subdwarf.

Fundamental stellar parameters of threeKeplerstars accurately constrained by lithium abundance and rotation

Aims. The lithium abundances of KIC 11395018 and KIC 10920273 are not compatible with the age of these stars, which is deduced by asteroseismology. To explain this phenomenon, we investigated the possible evolutionary status and performed a seismological analysis of the three stars KIC 11395018, KIC 10273246, and KIC 10920273. Methods. Using the Yale Rotating Stellar Evolution Code (YREC), we constructed stellar models that include diffusion and extra-mixing caused by rotation. In addition to the general observed properties, we considered two constraints, the lithium abundance log N (Li) and the rotational period P rot . Results. A set of stellar fundamental parameters is given by our rotating model for each star. We estimate the mass and age to be 1.24 ± 0.01 M ⊙ and 5.55 ± 0.20 Gyr for KIC 11395018, 1.19 ± 0.04 M ⊙ and 4.36 ± 0.29 Gyr for KIC 10273246, and 1.15 ± 0.03 M ⊙ and 5.68 ± 0.30 Gyr for KIC 10920273. Moreover, the lithium abundance of our rotating model of the three stars agrees well with the observation.Conclusions. The consideration of lithium and the rotational period helped us in obtaining very precise estimates of the star.

EVIDENCE OF RESONANT MODE COUPLING AND THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN LOW AND HIGH FREQUENCIES IN A RAPIDLY ROTATING A STAR

In the theory of resonant mode coupling, the parent and child modes are directly related in frequency and phase. The oscillations present in the fast rotating Delta Scuti star KIC 8054146 allow us to test the most general and generic aspects of such a theory. The only direct way to separate the parent and coupled (child) modes is to examine the correlations in amplitude variability between the different frequencies. For the dominant family of related frequencies, only a single mode and a triplet are the origins of nine dominant frequency peaks ranging from 2.93 to 66.30 cycles per day (as well as dozens of small-amplitude combination modes and a predicted and detected third high-frequency triplet). The mode-coupling model correctly predicts the large amplitude variations of the coupled modes as a product of the amplitudes of the parent modes, while the phase changes are also correctly modeled. This differs from the behavior of 'normal' combination frequencies in that the amplitudes are three orders of magnitude larger and may exceed even the amplitudes of the parent modes. We show that two dominant low frequencies at 5.86 and 2.93 cycles per day in the gravity-mode region are not harmonics of each other, and their properties follow those of the almost equidistant high-frequency triplet. We note that the previously puzzling situation of finding two strong peaks in the low-frequency region related by nearly a factor of two in frequency has been seen in other Delta Scuti stars as well.

Frequencies of Superflares in Solar-Type Stars Detected by the Kepler Orbital Observatory

A statistical study of solar-type stars for which superflares have been observed with the Kepler orbital observatory is presented. Methods developed for solving similar problems for flare stars are invoked to do this. The total number of stars capable of superflares is estimated and the flare frequency distribution is determined for the complete set of stars and for separate subsamples constructed by breaking the complete sample into two parts in terms of the rotation periods and variability amplitudes of the stars. The star KIC 7264976 is found to have a statistically significant variation in its frequency of superflares.

PLANET HUNTERS. V. A CONFIRMED JUPITER-SIZE PLANET IN THE HABITABLE ZONE AND 42 PLANET CANDIDATES FROM THEKEPLERARCHIVE DATA

We report the latest Planet Hunter results, including PH2 b, a Jupiter-size (R_PL = 10.12 \pm 0.56 R_E) planet orbiting in the habitable zone of a solar-type star. PH2 b was elevated from candidate status when a series of false positive tests yielded a 99.9% confidence level that transit events detected around the star KIC 12735740 had a planetary origin. Planet Hunter volunteers have also discovered 42 new planet candidates in the Kepler public archive data, of which 33 have at least three transits recorded. Most of these transit candidates have orbital periods longer than 100 days and 20 are potentially located in the habitable zones of their host stars. Nine candidates were detected with only two transit events and the prospective periods are longer than 400 days. The photometric models suggest that these objects have radii that range between Neptune to Jupiter. These detections nearly double the number of gas giant planet candidates orbiting at habitable zone distances. We conducted spectroscopic observations for nine of the brighter targets to improve the stellar parameters and we obtained adaptive optics imaging for four of the stars to search for blended background or foreground stars that could confuse our photometric modeling. We present an iterative analysis method to derive the stellar and planet properties and uncertainties by combining the available spectroscopic parameters, stellar evolution models, and transiting light curve parameters, weighted by the measurement errors. Planet Hunters is a citizen science project that crowd-sources the assessment of NASA Kepler light curves. The discovery of these 43 planet candidates demonstrates the success of citizen scientists at identifying planet candidates, even in longer period orbits with only two or three transit events.

Seismic investigation of the γ Dor star KIC 6462033: The first results of Kepler and ground-based follow up observations

AbstractPreliminary results on the analysis of the Kepler light curve and photometric ground-based time series of γ Dor star KIC 6462033 (TYC 3144-646-1, V = 10.83, P = 0.69686 d) are presented in order to determine pulsation frequencies.

DETECTION OF HIGH-DEGREE PROGRADE SECTORAL MODE SEQUENCES IN THE A-STAR KIC 8054146?

This paper examines the 46 frequencies found in the Delta Sct star KIC 8054146 involving a frequency spacing of exactly 2.814 c/d (32.57 microHz), which is also a dominant low-frequency peak near or equal to the rotational frequency. These 46 frequencies range up to 146 c/d. Three years of Kepler data reveal distinct sequences of these equidistantly spaced frequencies, including the basic sequence and side lobes associated with other dominant modes (i.e., small amplitude modulations). The amplitudes of the basic sequence show a high-low pattern. The basic sequence follows the equation fm = 2.8519 + m * 2.81421 c/d with m ranging from 25 to 35. The zero-point offset and the lack of low-order harmonics eliminate an interpretation in terms of a Fourier series of a non-sinusoidal light curve. The exactness of the spacing eliminates high-order asymptotic pulsation. The frequency pattern is not compatible with simple hypotheses involving single or multiple spots, even with differential rotation. The basic high-frequency sequence is interpreted in terms of prograde sectoral modes. These can be marginally unstable, while their corresponding low-degree counterparts are stable due to stronger damping. The measured projected rotation velocity (300 km/s) indicates that the star rotates with app. 70% of the Keplerian break-up velocity. This suggests a near equator-on view. We qualitatively examine the visibility of prograde sectoral high-degree g-modes in integrated photometric light in such a geometrical configuration and find that prograde sectoral modes can reproduce the frequencies and the odd-even amplitude pattern of the high-frequency sequence.

Short-duration high-amplitude flares detected on the M dwarf star KIC 5474065

Using data obtained during the RATS-Kepler project, we identified one short-duration flare in a 1 h sequence of ground-based photometry of the dwarf star KIC 5474065. Observations made using Gran Telescopio Canarias show that it is a star with an M4V spectral type. Kepler observations made using 1 min sampling show that KIC 5474065 exhibits large-amplitude (δF/F > 0.4) optical flares which have a duration as short as 10 min. We compare the energy distribution of flares from KIC 5474065 with that of KIC 9726699, which has also been observed using 1-min sampling, and ground-based observations of other M dwarf stars in the literature. We discuss the possible implications these short-duration, relatively low-energy flares would have on the atmosphere of exoplanets orbiting in the habitable zone of these flare stars.

Multisite photometric campaign on the high-amplitude δ Scuti star KIC 6382916

We present results of a multi-site photometric campaign on the high-amplitude $\delta$\,Scuti star KIC\,6382916 in the {\it Kepler} field. The star was observed over a 85-d interval at five different sites in North America and Europe during 2011. {\it Kepler} photometry and ground-based multicolour light curves of KIC\,6382916 are used to investigate the pulsational content and to identify the principal modes. High-dispersion spectroscopy was also obtained in order to derive the stellar parameters and projected rotational velocity. From an analysis of the {\it Kepler} time series, three independent frequencies and a few hundred combination frequencies are found. The light curve is dominated by two modes with frequencies $f_{1}$= 4.9107 and $f_{2}$= 6.4314\,d$^{-1}$. The third mode with $f_{3}$= 8.0350\,d$^{-1}$ has a much lower amplitude. We attempt mode identification by examining the amplitude ratios and phase differences in different wavebands from multicolour photometry and comparing them to calculations for different spherical harmonic degree, $l$. We find that the theoretical models for $f_1$ and $f_2$ are in a best agreement with the observations and lead to value of l = 1 modes, but the mode identification of $f_3$ is uncertain due to its low amplitude. Non-adiabatic pulsation models show that frequencies below 6\,d$^{-1}$ are stable, which means that the low frequency of $f_1$ cannot be reproduced. This is further confirmation that current models predict a narrower pulsation frequency range than actually observed.

Asteroseismology of KIC 11754974: a high-amplitude SX Phe pulsator in a 343-d binary system

The candidate SX Phe star KIC 11754974 shows a remarkably high number of combination frequencies in the Fourier amplitude spectrum: 123 of the 166 frequencies in our multi-frequency fit are linear combinations of independent modes. Predictable patterns in frequency spacings are seen in the Fourier transform of the light curve. We present an analysis of 180 d of short-cadence Kepler photometry and of new spectroscopic data for this evolved, late A-type star. We infer from the 1150-d, long-cadence light curve, and in two different ways, that our target is the primary of a 343-d, non-eclipsing binary system. According to both methods, the mass function is similar, f(M)=0.0207 +/- 0.0003 Msun. The observed pulsations are modelled extensively, using separate, state-of-the-art, time-dependent convection (TDC) and rotating models. The models match the observed temperature and low metallicity, finding a mass of 1.50-1.56 Msun. The models suggest the whole star is metal-poor, and that the low metallicity is not just a surface abundance peculiarity. This is the best frequency analysis of an SX Phe star, and the only Kepler \delta\ Sct star to be modelled with both TDC and rotating models.

FIRST ASTEROSEISMIC LIMITS ON THE NATURE OF DARK MATTER

We report the first constraints on the properties of weakly interacting low-mass dark matter (DM) particles using asteroseismology. The additional energy transport mechanism due to accumulated asymmetric DM particles modifies the central temperature and density of low-mass stars and suppresses the convective core expected in 1.1-1.3 Ms stars even for an environmental DM density as low as the expected in the solar neighborhood. An asteroseismic modeling of the stars KIC 8006161, HD 52265 and Alpha Cen B revealed small frequency separations significantly deviated from the observations, leading to the exclusion of a region of the DM parameter space mass versus spin-dependent DM-proton scattering cross section comparable with present experimental constraints.

KIC 10449976: discovery of an extreme helium subdwarf in the Kepler field

Optical spectroscopy of the blue star KIC 10449976 shows that it is an extremely helium-rich subdwarf with effective temperature T=40000+/-300 K and surface gravity log g=5.3+/-0.1. Radial-velocity measurements over a five-day timescale show an upper variability limit of ~50+/-20 km/s. Kepler photometry of KIC 10449976 in both long and short cadence modes shows evidence for a periodic modulation on a timescale of ~3.9 days. We have examined the possibility that this modulation is not astrophysical but conclude it is most likely real. We discuss whether the modulation could be caused by a low-mass companion, by stellar pulsations, or by spots. The identification of any one of these as cause has important consequences for understanding the origin of helium-rich subdwarfs.

Low-frequency variations of unknown origin in theKeplerδ Scuti star KIC 5988140 = HD 188774

We used high-quality Kepler photometry and spectroscopic data to investigate the Kepler binary candidate KIC 5988140. Using the spectrum synthesis method, we derived the fundamental parameters Teff, log g, [M/H], and v.sini and the abundances. Frequency analyses of both the photometric and the spectroscopic data were performed, revealing the same two dominant frequencies (F_1=0.688 and F_2=0.344 c/d). We also detected in the photometry the signal of nine more, significant frequencies located in the typical range of Delta Scuti pulsation. The light and radial velocity curves follow a similar, stable double-wave pattern which are not exactly in anti-phase but show a relative phase shift of about 0.1 period between the moment of minimum velocity and that of maximum light. We considered three different scenarios: binarity, co-existence of both Gamma Doradus and Delta Scuti pulsations and rotation of the stellar surface with an axisymmetric intensity distribution. However, none of these scenarios is capable of explaining all of the characteristics of the observed variations. We confirm the occurrence of various independent Delta Scuti-type pressure modes in the Kepler light curve. With respect to the low-frequency content, however, we argue that the physical cause of the remaining light and radial velocity variations of this late A-type star remains unexplained by any of the presently considered scenarios.

Differential rotation and meridional flows of K giants: Predictions from mean field theory

AbstractWe present a mean field model of the differential rotation and meridional flow of the giant star KIC 8366239. The model predicts a solar‐type surface differential rotation with a total shear of 0.03 rad/d. The horizontal shear decreases with depth and vanishes at the lower boundary. No drastic increase of the rotation rate towards the core is found. The surface meridional flow is directed towards the poles and has amplitude of 26 m/s. The return flow at the bottom of the convective envelope has an amplitude of 16 m/s. The results are compared with those for the K giant Arcturus and the Sun (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

Ground‐based multi‐color photometry of the γ Doradus–δ Scuti hybrid star KIC 6761539

AbstractWe present a preliminary analysis of the first three nights of multi‐color photometric data for a γ Doradus‐δ Scuti hybrid star (KIC 6761539) that is also being observed with the Kepler space telescope. We find that up to four (depending on the filter) of the highest amplitude modes, whose frequencies could be determined from Kepler data, are visible from the ground. Our goal is to use the multi‐color information for mode identification, but this will only be possible with a longer time series. A multi‐color photometric multi‐site campaign is currently ongoing for this purpose (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

Attempts to reproduce the rotation profile of the red giant KIC 7341231 observed by Kepler

AbstractThanks to the asteroseimic study of the red giant star KIC 7341231 observed by Kepler, it has been possible to infer its radial differential rotation profile (Deheuvels et al. 2012). This opens new ways to constrain the physical mechanisms responsible of the angular momentum transport in stellar interiors by directly comparing this radial rotation profile with the ones computed using stellar evolution codes including dynamical processes. In this preliminary work, we computed different models of KIC 7341231 with the Geneva stellar evolution code that includes transport mechanisms due to a shellular rotation and the associated large‐scale meridional circulation and shear‐induced turbulence. Once the global parameters of the star had been established, we modified some of the model’s input parameters in order to understand their effects on the predicted rotation profile of the modeled star. As a result, we find a discrepancy between the rotation profile deduced from asteroseismic measurements and the profiles predicted from models including shellular rotation and related meridional flows and turbulence. This indicates that a most powerful mechanism is in action to extract angular momentum from the core of this star (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

Pulsational amplitude growth of the star KIC 3429637 (HD 178875) in the context of Am and ρ Pup stars

KIC 3429637 (HD 178875) is a delta Sct star whose light-curve shows continuous pulsational amplitude growth in Kepler Mission photometry. Analysis of the three largest amplitude peaks in the Fourier transform indicates different growth rates for all three. We have ruled out instrumental causes, and determine the amplitude growth to be intrinsic to the star. We calculate time-dependent convection models and compare them with the observations. We confirm earlier characterisations that KIC 3429637 is a marginal Am star through the analysis of new spectroscopic data. With the data presently available, a plausible cause of the amplitude growth is increasing pulsational driving as evolutionary changes shift the He II driving zone deeper in this rho Puppis star. If this model is correct, then we are watching real-time stellar evolutionary changes.

Fundamental properties and seismological analysis of three Kepler stars

AbstractThe lithium abundance of KIC 11395018 and KIC 10920273 are not compatible with their age, which is deduced by asteroseismology. To explain this phenomenon, we investigate the possible evolutionary status and perform seismological analysis of the three stars KIC 11395018, KIC 10273246 and KIC 10920273. Using the Yale Rotating Stellar Evolution Code (YREC), we constructed a grid of evolutionary tracks with different input physics and rotation rates. In addition to the conventional observed properties, we added two observed constraints: lithium abundance and rotational period. As a result, the lithium abundance of our rotation models agrees well with the observation. Meanwhile, we obtained a set of more accurate stellar fundamental parameters than previous studies.