NSVS 3198272, a low-mass ratio contact binary, revisited

TL;DR

This study revisits the low-mass ratio contact binary NSVS 3198272 using multi-filter photometry and light curve modeling, proposing a preferred model with a circumpolar spot and discovering a new variable star.

Contribution

It provides a detailed analysis of NSVS 3198272 with multiple modeling scenarios and advocates for a specific spot model, also reporting a new variable star discovery.

Findings

Similar physical properties from simple and spotted models

Preference for the circumpolar spot model

Discovery of a new bright variable star

Abstract

Here we report our study on a low-mass ratio contact binary system NSVS 3198272. We subjected our multi-filter ground-based photometry to the light curve numerical modeling using a modified Wilson-Devinney code. We present three scenarios fitting to the data best: a simple, non-spotted model, a model with a circumpolar spot and a model with a marginal third light. The first two models return similar physical properties which are comparable to the previously reported results on this object. In discussion section we are arguing for advocating the model with a circumpolar spot. At the and we are considering the impact of specific scenarios on the calculated physical parameters of contact binaries. In addition, we report a discovery of a new bright variable star, found by chance as a field star.