# Luminous AGB variables in the dwarf Irregular Galaxy, NGC 3109

## TL;DR

This study identifies and characterizes eight Mira variables in NGC 3109, revealing their periods, compositions, and evolutionary states, and compares them with similar variables in the Galaxy and Magellanic Clouds.

## Contribution

First detection and analysis of Mira variables in NGC 3109, including their periods, compositions, and implications for stellar evolution in dwarf irregular galaxies.

## Key findings

- Eight Mira variables identified, seven are oxygen-rich.
- Five O-Miras likely hot-bottom burning stars with masses >~4 Msun.
- Comparison of long-period Miras across different galaxies.

## Abstract

In a shallow near-infrared survey of the dwarf Irregular galaxy, NGC 3109, near the periphery of the Local Group, we have found eight Mira variables, seven of which appear to be oxygen-rich (O-Miras). The periods range from about 430 days to almost 1500 days. Because of our relatively bright limiting magnitude, only 45 of the more than 400 known carbon stars were measured, but none was found to be a large amplitude variable. One of the Miras may be an unrecognised C star. Five of the O-Miras are probably hot-bottom burning stars considering that they are brighter than expected from the period--luminosity relation of Miras and that, by comparison with theoretical evolutionary tracks, they appear to have masses >~4 Msun. A census of very long period (P>1000 days) Miras in the Galaxy and Magellanic Clouds is presented and discussed together with the newly discovered long period, but relatively blue, variables in NGC 3109. New $JHKL$ photometry is presented for three O-rich long period Miras i n the SMC (including a candidate super-AGB star).