G309.2-00.6 and jets in supernova remnants

Abstract

We present Australia Telescope Compact Array observations of the supernova remnant (SNR) G309.2-00.6. In a 1.3-GHz continuum image the remnant appears as a near-circular shell, but with two brightened and distorted arcs of emission on opposite sides. HI absorption against the SNR yields a distance in the range 5.4 to 14.1 kpc, corresponding to an age (1-20)x10^3 yr. On the basis of the SNR's morphology we argue that it is a younger analogue of the W50/SS433 system, and that its unusual appearance is a result of opposed jets or outflows from a central source. A jet-like feature and breaks in the shell can both be seen along the axis of proposed outflow, providing further support for this interpretation; the central source itself is not detected. The SNR may be interacting with the adjacent HII region RCW 80 through an extension of the proposed outflow beyond its shell. This would put the SNR at the lower limit of its distance range and would imply an age <4000 yr. We consider other SNRs similar to G309.2-00.6, and propose remnants whose shells are affected by jets as one of several classes of SNR from which the presence of a central source can be inferred.