First results from the RAO Variable Star Search Program: I. Background, Procedure, and Results from RAO Field 1

TL;DR

This paper reports the initial findings of a variable star search in a specific sky field using the Rothney Astrophysical Observatory, identifying 35 variable stars and analyzing their light curves with new observational data and methods.

Contribution

First results from the RAO Variable Star Search Program, including detection, classification, and light curve analysis of variable stars in a 19 square degree field.

Findings

Detected 35 variable stars, including eclipsing binaries and RR Lyrae.

Analyzed 25 light curves with converged solutions, revealing system types.

Reported 11 variables previously known in literature.

Abstract

We describe an ongoing variable star search program and present the first reduced results of a search in a 19 square degree (4.4\circle x 4.4\circle) field centered on J2000 {\alpha} = 22:03:24, {\delta} = +18:54:32. The search was carried out with the Baker-Nunn Patrol Camera located at the Rothney Astrophysical Observatory in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies. A total of 26,271 stars were detected in the field, over a range of about 11-15 (instrumental) magnitudes. Our image processing made use of the IRAF version of the DAOPHOT aperture photometry routine and we used the ANOVA method to search for periodic variations in the light curves. We formally detected periodic variability in 35 stars, that we tentatively classify according to light curve characteristics: 6 EA (Algol), 5 EB ({\beta} Lyrae), 19 EW (W UMa), and 5 RR (RR Lyrae) stars. Eleven of the detected variable stars have been reported previously in the literature. The eclipsing binary light curves have been analyzed with a package of light curve modeling programs and 25 have yielded converged solutions. Nine of these systems are detached, 3 semi0detached, 10 over-contact, and 2 appear to be in marginal contact. We discuss these results as well as the advantages and disadvantages of the instrument and of the program.