Discovery of a Nova-Like Cataclysmic Variable in the Kepler Mission Field

TL;DR

This paper reports the discovery of a nova-like cataclysmic variable star in the Kepler field, characterized by unique photometric and spectroscopic features, and discusses its implications for understanding cataclysmic variable evolution.

Contribution

The paper identifies a new nova-like variable in the Kepler field and provides detailed photometric and spectroscopic analysis, highlighting its classification and potential significance for CV evolution studies.

Findings

Identified a nova-like variable of the UX UMa class.

Detected coherent variability with a 2.94 h period.

Observed rapid quasi-periodic variations on ~1200 s and ~650 s.

Abstract

We announce the identification of a new cataclysmic variable star in the field of the Kepler Mission, KIC J192410.81+445934.9. This system was identified during a search for compact pulsators in the Kepler field. High-speed photometry reveals coherent large-amplitude variability with a period of 2.94 h. Rapid, large-amplitude quasi-periodic variations are also detected on time scales of ~1200 s and ~650 s. Time-resolved spectroscopy covering one half photometric period shows shallow, broad Balmer and He I absorption lines with bright emission cores as well as strong He II and Bowen blend emission. Radial velocity variations are also observed in the Balmer and He I emission lines that are consistent with the photometric period. We therefore conclude that KIC J192410.81+445934.9 is a nova-like variable of the UX UMa class in or near the period gap, and it may belong to the rapidly growing subclass of SW Sex systems. Based on 2MASS photometry and companion star models, we place a lower limit on the distance to the system of ~500 pc. Due to limitations of our discovery data, additional observations including spectroscopy and polarimetry are needed to confirm the nature of this object. Such data will help to further understanding of the behavior of nova-like variables in the critical period range of 3-4 h, where standard cataclysmic variable evolutionary theory finds major problems. The presence of this system in the Kepler mission field-of-view also presents a unique opportunity to obtain a continuous photometric data stream of unparalleled length and precision on a cataclysmic variable system.