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First detection of the cataclysmic variable AE AQUARII at 90 microns: extension of its intriguing optically thick synchroton radio spectrum?

M. Abada-Simon , M. Mouchet  et al.1

Observatoire de Paris - 92195 Meudon - France




ISOPHOT has measured for the first time the flux of the Magnetic Cataclysmic Variable (MCV) AE Aquarii. This 3-sigma detection is in the range of the expected values, either in the case of the continuation of the optically thick synchrotron radio spectrum (the radio flux increases with frequency as a power-law of spectral index around 0.3-0.5), or in the case where the flux at 90 microns corresponds to the optically thin part of the synchrotron spectrum. In both cases, the initial magnetic field intensity canl be derived more precisely than ever for the plasmoids emitting the radio radiation, according to a realistic model. Various fits should restrain significantly several properties of the plasmoids. This emission is unique among MCVs, but it has similarities with some X-ray binaries, and it remains puzzling.


next up previous contents index
Next: Far-infrared photometry and mapping Up: Poster session D Stars Previous: Poster session D Stars
"The Universe as seen by ISO", 20 - 23 October 1998, Paris: Abstract Book