A forgotten episode of the $η~Car$ light curve in 1860-1865

V. F. Polcaro; R. Viotti

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A forgotten episode of the $η~Car$ light curve in 1860-1865

V. F. Polcaro·R. Viotti

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Abstract

We have found previously unreported observations of the galactic Luminous Blue Variable $η~Car$ covering the period 1860-1865. Contrary to the current belief, these data suggest that the star reached the first magnitude in 1860-1862, with possible large luminosity fluctuations, followed by a steep fading in 1865. A revised historical light curve of this most interesting object is given. Paper in press in Astronomy and Astrophysics.

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V. F. Polcaro, R. Viotti. 1993-05-19. A forgotten episode of the $η~Car$ light curve in 1860-1865. https://arxiv.org/abs/astro-ph/9305024

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