Peretto, Nicolas ![]() |
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Abstract
Aims.We measure the mass and kinematics of the massive molecular torus in the the proto-typical butterfly planetary nebula NGC 6302. Determining the mass-loss history of the source is an important step in understanding the origin and formation of the wing-like morphology. Methods. Using the SMA interferometer we have imaged both the continuum emission and the J=2-1 transitions of 12CO and 13CO at arcsecond resolution. These data are analysed in combination with observations of both the J=2-1 and J=3-2 transitions of 12CO and 13CO made with JCMT. Results. The 12CO and 13CO emission match the dark lane seen in absorption in the H${\alpha}$ image of the object and trace an expanding torus of material. The CO indicates a mass of the torus of ~2 $M_\odot \pm 1$ $M_\odot$. The torus is expanding with a velocity of ~8 km s-1, centred at $V_{\rm lsr}=-31.5\rm\,km\,s^{-1}$. The size and expansion velocity of the torus indicates that it was ejected from ~7500 yr to 2900 yr ago, with a mass-loss rate of $5\times10^{-4}\,M_\odot\,\rm yr^{-1}$. In addition we detect a ballistic component in the CO images which has a velocity gradient of 140 km s-1 pc-1. Conclusions.The derived mass-loss history of the torus favours binary interaction as the cause of the ejection of the torus and we predict the existence of a companion with an orbital period $P\lesssim 1\,$month.
Item Type: | Article |
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Date Type: | Publication |
Status: | Published |
Schools: | Physics and Astronomy |
Subjects: | Q Science > QB Astronomy |
Uncontrolled Keywords: | stars: AGB and post-AGB; planetary nebulae: general; planetary nebulae: individual: NGC 6302 |
Additional Information: | Pdf uploaded in accordance with publisher's policy at http://www.sherpa.ac.uk/romeo/issn/0004-6361/ (accessed 17/04/2014) |
Publisher: | EDP Sciences |
ISSN: | 0004-6361 |
Date of First Compliant Deposit: | 30 March 2016 |
Last Modified: | 23 May 2023 15:03 |
URI: | https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/56282 |
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