Multiple shells around G79.29+0.46 revealed from near-IR to millimeter data

TL;DR

This study uses multi-wavelength infrared and millimeter data to analyze multiple dust and gas shells around the luminous blue variable star G79.29+0.46, revealing complex structures and physical conditions of its nebula.

Contribution

It provides a detailed multi-wavelength analysis of the dust and gas shells around G79.29+0.46, highlighting the nebula's complex structure and physical conditions for the first time.

Findings

Detection of multiple dust and gas shells around G79.29+0.46

Identification of rich solid-state features and emission lines in spectra

Evidence of a photo-dissociation region in the nebula

Abstract

Aiming to perform a study of the warm dust and gas in the luminous blue variable star G79.29+0.46 and its associated nebula, we present infrared Spitzer imaging and spectroscopy, and new CO J=2-->1 and 4-->3 maps obtained with the IRAM 30m radio telescope and with the Submillimeter Telescope, respectively. We have analyzed the nebula detecting multiple shells of dust and gas connected to the star. Using Infrared Spectrograph-Spitzer spectra, we have compared the properties of the central object, the nebula, and their surroundings. These spectra show a rich variety of solid-state features (amorphous silicates, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and CO2 ices) and narrow emission lines, superimposed on a thermal continuum. We have also analyzed the physical conditions of the nebula, which point to the existence of a photo-dissociation region.