Intriguing nature of AM Her type candidate CXOU J204734.8+300105

TL;DR

This study investigates the complex X-ray and optical variability of CXOU J204734.8+300105, a candidate eclipsing polar-type cataclysmic variable, revealing conflicting periodic signals and spectral features indicative of a dynamic accretion environment.

Contribution

The paper presents multi-epoch X-ray and optical observations of CXOU J204734.8+300105, highlighting its conflicting periodicities and spectral properties, which challenge its classification and understanding of its accretion processes.

Findings

Detected ~6000 s periodicity with eclipse features in Chandra data.

Observed ~2000 s periodicity without eclipses in XMM-Newton data.

Spectral analysis shows multi-component emission and Fe lines.

Abstract

The detection and characterization of periodic X-ray signals are crucial for identifying new compact objects and studying the mechanisms powering their emission. We report on the timing and spectral variability of CXOU J204734.8+300105, a proposed eclipsing polar-type cataclysmic variable (CV) candidate. This source has been observed once with Chandra and twice with XMM-Newton, revealing several intriguing and conflicting features in its X-ray emission. The Chandra observation showed a periodicity of $\sim$6000 s with an eclipse-like feature. The X-ray light curve from 2017 XMM-Newton observation showed a period of $\sim$2000 seconds without any apparent eclipse, while the simultaneous optical light curve from OM showed a period of $\sim$6000 seconds. This variability raises questions about the true nature of the source. Spectral analysis indicates a multi-component emission and emission lines due to Fe. The spectral characteristics are consistent with those observed in other CV systems. Additionally, we identified optical and near-infrared counterparts from various catalogues. Our findings suggest a dynamic and evolving accretion environment of CXOU J204734.8+300105.