Cepheids and RR Lyrae stars in the K2 fields

TL;DR

This paper discusses the potential of the K2 mission to observe Cepheid and RR Lyrae stars, detailing target selection, initial data impressions, and scientific goals such as studying stellar pulsation modes, the Blazhko effect, and extragalactic observations.

Contribution

It presents the first efforts in target selection and initial observations of variable stars in the K2 mission, outlining new scientific opportunities.

Findings

Initial data shows promising observations of variable stars

Target selection strategies are effective for K2's objectives

Potential to study extragalactic stars and stellar pulsation modes

Abstract

With the step-and-stare approach of the K2 mission, Kepler will be able to observe a large number of Cepheid an RR Lyrae stars. In this paper we describe the target selection efforts, and the first impressions based on the K2 two-wheel engineering test data. We also summarize the scientific goals that can be achieved by Kepler, including the understanding of the various additional modes and the Blazhko effect, population studies and the possibilities to observe extragalactic stars in selected campaigns.