Galactic AGB stars from the IPHAS survey

TL;DR

This paper utilizes the IPHAS survey to identify and analyze AGB stars in the Galactic disk, introducing a photometric method to classify different types of AGB stars and exploring their implications for Galactic evolution.

Contribution

The study presents a novel photometric technique for classifying O-rich, S-type, and carbon AGB stars across the Galactic disk using IPHAS data, enhancing understanding of stellar and Galactic evolution.

Findings

Effective separation of dwarf and giant branches in IPHAS data

Successful spectroscopic follow-up confirming classifications

Potential insights into dredge-up processes and Galactic structure

Abstract

The INT Photometric H-Alpha Survey (IPHAS) is particular effective in tracing asymptotic giant branch (AGB) stars across the Galactic disk due to its use of broad-band r' and i' filters, and the clear separation of the dwarf and giant branches in the colour-colour diagram. Here we discuss some results from our studies of the Galactic AGB population that has been revealed by IPHAS. This includes a photometric study, our spectroscopic follow-up campaign, and the photometric technique that allows us to separate O-rich, S-type and carbon stars across the entire Galactic disk based on their IPHAS photometry alone. We also discuss the potential impact of this technique on our understanding of the dredge-up process in AGB stars, Galactic chemical evolution, and the structure and properties of the Galactic disk.