Multiple generation star formation in Cepheus Flare

TL;DR

This study analyzes the star formation history in Cepheus Flare by expanding the membership of the young stellar group ASCC 127 using Gaia data, revealing multiple sequential star formation episodes influenced by feedback from massive stars.

Contribution

It significantly increases known members of ASCC 127 and links star formation episodes to feedback processes in the Cepheus Flare region.

Findings

Expanded ASCC 127 membership to 3,971 stars.

Identified four sequential star formation episodes.

Detected a spatial cavity likely caused by stellar feedback.

Abstract

We present an analysis of the young stellar moving group ASCC 127 using Gaia DR3 data, significantly expanding its membership to 3,971 stars -- double the number identified in previous studies. Using kinematic and distance criteria, ASCC 127 is divided into five subgroups (Groups 1-5) with ages spanning from 15 to 32 Myr. Groups 1-5 are spatially linked to the Cepheus Flare star-forming region, revealing potential evidence of four sequential star formation episodes at approximately 32 Myr, 20 Myr, 15 Myr, and 7 Myr. Through dust and gas mapping, we identify a spatial cavity extending several tens of parsecs, which may have resulted from feedback processes such as supernovae associated with earlier generations of stars in the region. This structure, along with the larger Loop III feature, indicates that feedback from massive stars likely influenced the interstellar medium (ISM). By integrating young stellar populations with ISM studies, we provide a detailed picture of the feedback-driven star formation history in the Cepheus Flare region.