Spectroscopic identifications of blue H-alpha excess sources in the Kepler field-of-view

TL;DR

This study reports the discovery of 11 new cataclysmic variables and 13 quasars in the Kepler field through spectroscopic follow-up of blue H-alpha excess sources, enhancing the understanding of accreting systems.

Contribution

First spectroscopic follow-up identifying new cataclysmic variables and quasars in the Kepler field, demonstrating improved candidate selection methods.

Findings

Identified 11 new cataclysmic variables and 13 quasars.

Success rate of 29% for CV detection, improved with infrared photometry.

Provides a basis for detailed Kepler time-resolved studies of accretion.

Abstract

We present the first results of an ongoing spectroscopic follow-up program of blue H-alpha excess sources within the Kepler field-of-view, in order to identify new cataclysmic variables. Kepler observations of the identified targets in this work will then provide detailed, time-resolved, studies of accretion. Candidates selected from the Kepler-INT Survey were observed with the 4.2 meter William Herschel Telescope. Out of 38 observed candidates, we found 11 new cataclysmic variables reported here for the first time, as well as 13 new quasars. Our target selection has a success rate of 29% when searching for cataclysmic variables, and we show how this can be improved by including photometry obtained with the Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer.