Investigating the properties of Galactic Luminous Blue Variables via IR observations

TL;DR

This study uses infrared observations and modeling to verify and analyze Galactic Luminous Blue Variables, enhancing identification and classification methods in the near-IR spectrum.

Contribution

It introduces a comprehensive IR-based approach combining spectroscopic monitoring and non-LTE modeling for LBV identification and analysis.

Findings

Successful verification of candidate LBVs through IR spectroscopy.

Development of methods for classification and quantitative analysis in the near-IR.

Enhanced understanding of LBV properties via IR observations.

Abstract

Recent IR surveys of the Galactic plane have revealed a large number of candidate Luminous Blue Variables. In order to verify these classifications we have been undertaking a long term spectroscopic and photometric monitoring campaign supplemented with tailored non-LTE model atmosphere analysis. Here we present a brief overview of selected aspects of this program, highlighting the prospects for identification, classification and quantitative analysis of LBVs in the near-IR spectral window.