ESOSAT and IUE observations of the symbiotic binary R Aquarii during maximum and minimum

Coordinated IUE and EXOSAT observations of the symbiotic Mira R Aqr, made in June and December 1985, at phases 0.0 and 0.5 of the Mira light curve, are discussed. A weak X-ray flux has been for the first time unambiquously detected without any significant change with the Mira light curve. Also the UV spectrum of the central object has not varied, while the presence of high ionization lines (NV and HeII) in the spectrum of the jet-like feature is confirmed. The data are discussed in the light of a model in which the jet is preexisting material illuminated by the recently increased X and UV radiation from the inner edge of the accretion disk around the degenerate companion of the Mira primary.Paper presented at the IAU Colloquium No. 93 on Cataclysmic Variables. Recent Multi-Frequency Observations and Theoretical Developments, held at Dr. Remeis-Sternwarte Bamberg, F.R.G., 16–19 June, 1986.     

Multi-frequency observations of the 1985 outburst of RS ophiuchi

The 1985 outburst of the bright, recurrent nova RS Oph was almost simultaneously observed at X-ray, UV, optical, IR and radio frequencies at many epochs. The abundances in the ejected shell and the development of the bolometric luminosity as a function of time suggest that the cause of the outburst is a nuclear runaway on a massive white dwarf.Paper presented at the IAU Colloquium No. 93 on Cataclysmic Variables. Recent Multi-Frequency Observations and Theoretical Development, held at Dr. Remeis-Sternwarte Bamberg, F.R.G., 16–19 June, 1986.     

X-ray observations of cataclysmic variables

The X-ray observatory EXOSAT spent over 1000 hours observing cataclysmic variables. Some of the major results reviewed here are: soft X-ray light curve changes in AM Her objects, orbital effects in the X-ray light curves of intermediate polars and U Gem, regular behaviour in the inter-outburst X-ray flux of VW Hyi, and X-ray emission from the tenuous remnant of the recent recurrent nova RS Oph. The ability of EXOSAT to make long uninterupted observations at high sensitivity over a broad spectral range and to react quickly to cosmic events has yielded a dataset of a quality that will not be surpassed for many years.Paper presented at the IAU Colloquium No. 93 on Cataclysmic Variables. Recent Multi-Frequency Observations and Theoretical Developments, held at Dr. Remeis-Sternwarte Bamberg, F.R.G., 16–19 June, 1986.     

Changes in the soft and hard X-ray light curves of the AM Her object E1405-451

The preliminary results of EXOSAT and contemporaneous optical observations of E1405-451 (V834 Cen) in 1985 and 1986 are presented. In the latter of the two observations the soft X-ray light curve was observed to be quite different to that seen in all previous observations, but similar to the optical light curve and the new soft X-ray light curve of E2003+225. A phase shift of the broad soft X-ray eclipse was also observed. The hard X-ray and optical light curves have also undergone small changes.Paper presented at the IAU Colloquium No. 93 on Cataclysmic Variables. Recent Multi-Frequency Observations and Theoretical Developments, held at Dr. Remeis-Sternwarte Bamberg, F.R.G., 16–19 June, 1986.     

Long-term optical photometry of the dwarf nova VW Hyi

Long-term five-colour photometry of the dwarf nova VW Hyi shows no evidence for a secular change of the flux during the quiescent interval between normal outbursts (3 upper limits between 0.16 and 0.20 mag in the five passbands). However, the amplitudes in the orbital B-U and U-W colour curves change during quiescence. A delay in the progress of normal outbursts toward higher frequencies confirms the delay, seen with IUE, in the onset of a normal outburst towart higher frequencies. Just after outburst, the system is substantially bluer than later in quiescence.Based on observations made at the European Southern Observatory, La Silla, ChilePaper presented at the IAU Colloquium No. 93 on Cataclysmic Variables. Recent Multi-Frequency Observations and Theoretical Developments, held at Dr. Remeis-Sternwarte Bamberg, F.R.G., 16–19 June, 1986.     

Periodic variabilities in the IUE spectra of SS Cygni

The analysis of the IUE low resolution spectra of SS Cyg in quiescence clearly shows modulations with the orbital phase of the continuum and the emission lines total area. The shape of such modulations is depending on the type of the optical outburst preceding the quiescent phase in which the UV spectra were collected. This behaviour, together with those in other wavelength regions, could be explained within the framework of the intermediate polar models.Paper presented at the IAU Colloquium No. 93 on Cataclysmic Variables. Recent Multi-Frequency Observations and Theoretical Developments, held at Dr. Remeis-Sternwarte Bamberg, F.R.G., 16–19 June, 1986.     

A simultaneous X-ray and optical study of TT Arietis

Prelimary results of an extended program of coordinated X-ray and optical observations of TT Ari are presented. The object was observed on August 21/22 1985 both in X-rays (EXOSAT) and optical range, about 100 days after the return to the active state. The first detailed simultaneous study of TT Ari in active state indicates the presence of strongly absorbing structure in the system.Paper presented at the IAU Colloquium No. 93 on Cataclysmic Variables. Recent Multi-Frequency Observations and Theoretical Developments, held at Dr. Remeis-Sternwarte Bamberg, F.R.G., 16–19 June, 1986.     

Optical and X-Ray Observations of the Symbiotic System Ag Draconis During Quiescence and Outburst

We review the main characteristics of the symbiotic system AG Draconis, with special emphasis on its optical and X-ray variations. We also discuss the X-ray to visual energy distribution during quiescence and outburst and describe our spectroscopic and X-ray observations during the 2003 outburst. Based on X-ray observations collected with the XMM–Newton Observatory, on INES data from the IUE satellite, and on optical spectra collected with the Asiago–Cima Ekar, Bologna–Loiano and La Palma–Galileo Italian telescopes.     

X-Ray and optical observations of the X-ray source EX0020528+1454.8

We present preliminary results of the EXOSAT X-ray observations and quasisimultaneous and simultaneous optical photometry of the X-ray source EX0020528+1454.8=1E0205+149 found independently as an serendipitous source both with Einstein and EXOSAT satellites. The optical counterpart is a pair of dMe stars. Our results indicate that the object is variable both in X-rays and optical wavelenghts, and probably belongs to dMe flare stars.Paper presented at the IAU Colloquium No. 93 on Cataclysmic Variables. Recent Multi-Frequency Observations and Theoretical Developments, held at Dr. Remeis-Sternwarte Bamberg, F.R.G., 16–19 June, 1986.     

Optical short-time variations in GK Persei during the 1983 outburst

During the August 1983 outburst of the old nova GK Persei observations with EXOSAT showed for the first time a 351 second periodicity in X-rays.Our fast photometry (U(B)V with 25 sec time resolution) was made at the end of the outburst in the nights of September 29, and October 1–3, using the 2.2 meter telescope at Calar Alto (Spain).Optical variations up to 10% in U and 4% in V with periodicities in the range 350 to 360 seconds were found, lasting only for few cycles.A comparison with the extrapolated prediction of the X-ray maxima did not show a coincidence, but rather an anticoincidence in several cases. This supports a model of reprocessed X-rays at the inner edge of an accretion disk.Paper presented at the IAU Colloquium No. 93 on Cataclysmic Variables. Recent Multi-Frequency Observations and Theoretical Developments, held at Dr. Remeis-Sternwarte Bamberg, F.R.G., 16–19 June, 1986.     

Multi-wavelength observations of dwarf novae during outburst

Multi-wavelength observations of dwarf novae during outburst are presented here. Thirty three objects were observed, of which seventeen were at outburst. Six objects were caught during the rise, and a short flare was detected in SU UMa. It lasted 20 hours and reached a maximum increase of 3.6 in flux at 5500 A. The flare was simultaneous at all observed wavelengths.Paper presented at the IAU Colloquium No. 93 on Cataclysmic Variables. Recent Multi-Frequency Observations and Theoretical Developments, held at Dr. Remeis-Sternwarte Bamberg, F.R.G., 16–19 June, 1986.     

X-ray emission from non-magnetic cataclysmic variables

EXOSAT observations of a large sample of non-magnetic cataclysmic variables have led to the detection of VW Hyi and OY Car as strong soft X-ray sources during superoutburst. The spectral characteristics of the X-ray emission of these SU Uma systems are compared. It is proposed that both systems have, besides a cool, optically thick boundary layer, an extended hot, optically thin corona.Paper presented at the IAU Colloquium No. 93 on Cataclysmic Variables. Recent Multi-Frequency Observations and Theoretical Developments, held at Dr. Remeis-Sternwarte Bamberg, F.R.G., 16–19 June, 1986.     

Preliminary results of improved model fits to the extreme and far UV observations of cataclysmic variables

We present the first results of a study which will attempt to analyze the combined Voyager and IUE observations of cataclysmic variables using steady-state accretion disk models. Initially we use flux ratio diagrams to determine if a combination of models will suffice or if new ingredients are necessary.Paper presented at the IAU Colloquium No. 93 on Cataclysmic Variables. Recent Multi-Frequency Observations and Theoretical Developments, heald ar Dr. Remeis-Sternwarte Bamberg, F.R.G., 16–19 June, 1986.     

Low-mass X-ray binaries in the LMC

We report results on three low-mass X-ray binaries (LMXB) in the LMC, obtained with EXOSAT, IUE and ground-based (ESO) telescopes: LMC X-2 which appears to be Sco X-1-like, LHG 83 and LHG 87. The latter are two weaker sources first detected in the course of the HEAO-B LMC survey. They have faint optical counterparts of which LHG 87 was only recently identified by us. In X-rays, they are characterized by ultrasoft X-ray spectra possibly characteristic of black-hole primaries. LHG 83 furthermore shows evidence for X-ray ionization of the surrounding interstellar medium, similar to the He III region around the black-hole candidate LMC X-1. X-ray binaries with masses of compact objects in excess of 3 M and ultrasoft X-ray spectra are comparatively frequent in the LMC. We suggest that subcritical accretion onto black holes takes place in LHG 83 and LHG 87.Paper presented at the IAU Colloquium No. 93 on Cataclysmic Variables. Recent Multi-Frequency Observations and Theoretical Developments, held at Dr. Remeis-Sternwarte Bamberg, F.R.G., 16–19 June, 1986.     

Disk-instability model for outbursts of dwarf novae: Fine mesh calculations

We have executed fine mesh calculations which can almost fully resolve the transition front in the accretion disk of dwarf novae. Results show that the effects of thermal diffusion become very important only when the heating wave passes by. But it is unlikely that they cause drastic changes in the situation of wave propagation. The validity of the localized front approximation is examined. It is found that this approximation is relatively good for heating waves but it is marginal for cooling waves.Paper presented at the IAU Colloquium No. 93 on Cataclysmic Variables. Recent Multi-Frequency Observations and Theoretical Developments, held at Dr. Remeis-Sternwarte Bamberg, F.R.G., 16–19 June, 1986.     

The mm wave outbursts of November 1 and 2, 1968

On November 1 and 2, 1968 two flares of importance 2b associated with the active region = S15°, L = 173° presented particular activity in the mm band. The outburst of November 1 in the mm wavelength band was of the gradual rise and fall type, while 24 hours later, the outburst of November 2 was of the sudden increase type with flux increase of the order of 4000 units. In the cm band the flare of November 1 produced a flux increase greater than in the mm band, while on November 2 the flare produced a series of outbursts with gradually increasing maxima, but much lower than the mm flux increase. It is reported that generally the peak flux decreases with increasing wavelength. The outburst of November 2 follows this rule but it is exactly the opposite for the sudden increase outburst produced by the November 1 flare. As to whether an increased brightness produces a higher mm or cm flux increase, available observations are not sufficient to make a firm statement.     

CCD observations of X-ray binaries

During two observation periods in 1984 and 1985 we monitored the faint optical counterparts of seven X-ray binaries with a CCD camera attached to the Cassegrain-focus of the 2.2 m telescope at Calar Alto, Spain. The observation periods were 1984, September 25–27, and 1985, August 8–15.The transient sources 4U0042+32 and 4U0115+63 showed no active state.The search for an optical candidate of 4U0142+62 did not reveal any objectm _v 24 within the EXOSAT error box.Within the EXOSAT error box of EXO2030+37 the reddest object was found to be very faint in blue in contrast to the blue Palomar plate.The analysis of the other three observed sources 4U1837+04, 1H1929+509, and 4U2129+47 is not yet finalized, but no unexpected bright or faint state of the sources has been found, 4U2129+47 is still in its present low state (m _v =18), lasting at least since 1983.Paper presented at the IAU Colloquium No. 93 on Cataclysmic Variables. Recent Multi-Frequency Observations and Theoretical Developments, held at Dr. Remeis-Sternwarte Bamberg, F.R.G., 16–19 June, 1986.     

New exosat observations of TV Columbae: Preliminary results

The first results of the analysis of new EXOSAT observations of the DQ Her type cataclysmic variable TV Col are presented. The period of the 1–10 keV X-ray pulsation associated with the white-dwarf rotation is now established as 1911 s. The pulsations are most pronounced in the lower energy channels (1–3.5 keV). The X-ray light curve shows absorption features associated with the orbital period of the system.Paper presented at the IAU Colloquium No. 93 on Cataclysmic Variables. Recent Multi-Frequency Observations and Theoretical Developments, heald at Dr. Remeis-Sternwarte Bamberg, F.R.G., 16–19 June, 1986.     

IUE observations of CH Cygni continuum during 1979–1986

Variations of the UV continuum have been analyzed. The observed UV continuum may be reproduced by a superposition of a Kurucz model atmosphere (log g=2), T_eff8500–15000 K) and optically thin hydrogen bound-free and free-free emission (T_e 1000 K). The temperature of the Kurucz atmosphere is the lowest at the maximum of brightness. The flat minimum in the UV integrated flux was observed in May–October 1985.Paper presented at the IAU Colloquium No. 93 on Cataclysmic Variables. Recent Multi-Frequency Observations and Theoretical Developments, held at Dr. Remeis-Sternwarte Bamberg, F.R.G.,16–19 June, 1986.     

The unusual 2006 dwarf nova outburst of GK Persei

The 2006 outburst of GK Persei differed significantly at optical and ultraviolet (UV) wavelengths from typical outbursts of this object. We present multiwavelength (X-ray, UV and optical) Swift and AAVSO data, giving unprecedented broad-band coverage of the outburst, allowing us to follow the evolution of the longer-than-normal 2006 outburst across these wavelengths. In the optical and UV we see a triple-peaked morphology with maximum brightness ∼1.5 mag lower than in previous years. In contrast, the peak hard X-ray flux is the same as in previous outbursts. We resolve this dichotomy by demonstrating that the hard X-ray flux only accounts for a small fraction of the total energy liberated during accretion, and interpret the optical/UV outburst profile as arising from a series of heating and cooling waves traversing the disc, caused by its variable density profile.