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Stellar theory enables us to understand the properties of stars at different stages of their evolution, and contributes to other fields of astrophysics such as galactic and exoplanet studies. Assessing the accuracy of stellar theories necessitates high precision, model-independent measurements of the properties of real stars, such as those obtainable for the components of double-lined eclipsing binaries (DLEBs), while asteroseismology offers probing power of the stellar interior if one or both components pulsate. KIC 4851217 is a DLEB containing two late A-type stars and exhibits pulsations of the |$\delta$| Scuti type. By analysing high resolution HERMES and moderate resolution ISIS spectra, jointly with Kepler and Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite light curves, we measured the masses, radii, and effective temperatures of the components to precisions of |$\sim$| 0.5, |$\sim$| 1.1, and |$\sim$| 1 per cent, respectively. We additionally report the discovery and characterization of a tertiary M-dwarf companion. Models of the system's spectral energy distribution agree with an age of 0.82 Gyr, with the more massive and larger secondary component near the end of the main-sequence lifetime. An examination of the pulsating component's pulsation frequencies reveals 39 pulsation multiplets that are split by the orbital frequency. For most of these, it is evident that the pulsation axes have been tilted into the orbital plane. This makes KIC 4851217 a tidally tilted pulsator (TTP). This precisely characterized |$\delta$| Scuti DLEB is an ideal candidate for advancing intermediate-mass stellar theory, contributing to our understanding of hierarchical systems as well as to the topic of TTPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several studies have shown that a number of stars pulsating in p modes lie between the β Cep and δ Sct instability strips in the Hertzsprung–Russell (HR) Diagram. At present, there is no certain understanding of how p modes can be excited in this T eff range. The goal of this work is to disprove the conjecture that all stars pulsating in p modes and lying in this T eff range are the result of incorrect measurements of T eff, contamination, or the presence of unseen cooler companions lying in the δ Sct instability strip (given the high binary fraction of stars in this region of the HR Diagram). Using TESS data, we show that the A0Vnne star HD 42477 has a single p mode coupled to several r modes and/or g modes. We rule out a contaminating background star with a pixel-by-pixel examination, and we essentially rule out the possibility of a companion δ Sct star in a binary. We model the pulsations in HD 42477, and suggest that the g modes are excited by overstable convective core modes. We also conjecture that the single p mode is driven by coupling with the g modes, or that the oblateness of this rapidly-rotating star permits driving by He  ii ionization in the equatorial region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the discovery of the third tidally tilted pulsator, TIC 63328020. Observations with the TESS satellite reveal binary eclipses with an orbital period of 1.1057 d, and δ Scuti-type pulsations with a mode frequency of 21.09533 d−1. This pulsation exhibits a septuplet of orbital sidelobes as well as a harmonic quintuplet. Using the oblique pulsator model, the primary oscillation is identified as a sectoral dipole mode with l  = 1, | m | = 1. We find the pulsating star to have |$M_1 \simeq 2.5 \, {\rm M}_\odot$|⁠ , |$R_1 \simeq 3 \, {\rm R}_\odot$|⁠ , and T eff, 1 ≃ 8000 K, while the secondary has |$M_2 \simeq 1.1 \, {\rm M}_\odot$|⁠ , |$R_2 \simeq 2 \, {\rm R}_\odot$|⁠ , and T eff, 2 ≃ 5600 K. Both stars appear to be close to filling their respective Roche lobes. The properties of this binary as well as the tidally tilted pulsations differ from the previous two tidally tilted pulsators, HD74423 and CO Cam, in important ways. We also study the prior history of this system with binary evolution models and conclude that extensive mass transfer has occurred from the current secondary to the primary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new class of pulsating binary stars was recently discovered, whose pulsation amplitudes are strongly modulated with orbital phase. Stars in close binaries are tidally distorted, so we examine how a star's tidally induced asphericity affects its oscillation mode frequencies and eigenfunctions. We explain the pulsation amplitude modulation via tidal mode coupling such that the pulsations are effectively confined to certain regions of the star, e.g. the tidal pole or the tidal equator. In addition to a rigorous mathematical formalism to compute this coupling, we provide a more intuitive semi-analytic description of the process. We discuss three resulting effects: (1) Tidal alignment, i.e. the alignment of oscillation modes about the tidal axis rather than the rotation axis; (2) Tidal trapping, e.g. the confinement of oscillations near the tidal poles or the tidal equator; (3) Tidal amplification, i.e. increased flux perturbations near the tidal poles where acoustic modes can propagate closer to the surface of the star. Together, these phenomena can account for the pulsation amplitude and phase modulation of the recently discovered class of 'tidally tilted pulsators.' We compare our theory to the three tidally tilted pulsators HD 74423, CO Cam, and TIC 63328020, finding that tidally trapped modes that are axisymmetric about the tidal axis can largely explain the first two, while a non-axisymmetric tidally aligned mode is present in the latter. Finally, we discuss implications and limitations of the theory, and we make predictions for the many new tidally tilted pulsators likely to be discovered in the near future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context. Chemically peculiar (CP) stars with a measurable magnetic field comprise the group of mCP stars. The pulsating members define the subgroup of rapidly oscillating Ap (roAp) stars, of which α Cir is the brightest member. Hence, α Cir allows the application of challenging techniques, such as interferometry, very high temporal and spectral resolution photometry, and spectroscopy in a wide wavelength range, that have the potential to provide unique information about the structure and evolution of a star. Aims. Based on new photometry from BRITE-Constellation, obtained with blue and red filters, and on photometry from WIRE, SMEI, and TESS we attempt to determine the surface spot structure of α Cir and investigate pulsation frequencies. Methods. We used photometric surface imaging and frequency analyses and Bayesian techniques in order to quantitatively compare the probability of different models. Results. BRITE-Constellation photometry obtained from 2014 to 2016 is put in the context of space photometry obtained by WIRE, SMEI, and TESS. This provides improvements in the determination of the rotation period and surface features (three spots detected and a fourth one indicated). The main pulsation frequencies indicate two consecutive radial modes and one intermediate dipolar mode. Advantages and problems of the applied Bayesian technique are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Results of an analysis of the BRITE-Constellation photometry of the SB1 system and ellipsoidal variable π5 Ori (B2 III) are presented. In addition to the orbital light-variation, which can be represented as a five-term Fourier cosine series with the frequencies f orb, 2 f orb, 3 f orb, 4 f orb, and 6 f orb, where f orb is the system's orbital frequency, the star shows five low-amplitude but highly significant sinusoidal variations with frequencies fi (i  = 2,.. 5, 7) in the range from 0.16 to 0.92 d−1. With an accuracy better than 1σ, the latter frequencies obey the following relations: f 2 − f 4 = 2 f orb, f 7 − f 3 = 2 f orb, f 5 = f 3 − f 4 = f 7 − f 2. We interpret the first two relations as evidence that two high-order ℓ = 1, m  = 0 gravity modes are self-excited in the system's tidally distorted primary component. The star is thus an ellipsoidal SPB variable. The last relations arise from the existence of the first-order differential combination term between the two modes. Fundamental parameters, derived from photometric data in the literature and the Hipparcos parallax, indicate that the primary component is close to the terminal stages of its main-sequence (MS) evolution. Extensive Wilson–Devinney modelling leads to the conclusion that best fits of the theoretical to observed light curves are obtained for the effective temperature and mass consistent with the primary's position in the HR diagram and suggests that the secondary is in an early MS evolutionary stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CO Cam (TIC 160268882) is the second 'single-sided pulsator' to be discovered. These are stars where one hemisphere pulsates with a significantly higher amplitude than the other side of the star. CO Cam is a binary star comprised of an Am δ Sct primary star with T eff = 7070 ± 150 K, and a spectroscopically undetected G main-sequence secondary star. The dominant pulsating side of the primary star is centred on the L1 point. We have modelled the spectral energy distribution combined with radial velocities, and independently the TESS light curve combined with radial velocities. Both of these give excellent agreement and robust system parameters for both stars. The δ Sct star is an oblique pulsator with at least four low radial overtone (probably) f modes with the pulsation axis coinciding with the tidal axis of the star, the line of apsides. Preliminary theoretical modelling indicates that the modes must produce much larger flux perturbations near the L1 point, although this is difficult to understand because the pulsating star does not come near to filling its Roche lobe. More detailed models of distorted pulsating stars should be developed. These newly discovered single-sided pulsators offer new opportunities for astrophysical inference from stars that are oblique pulsators in close binary stars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

If γ Dor-type pulsations are driven by the convective blocking mechanism, a convective envelope at a sufficient depth is essential. There are several hot γ Dor and hybrid star candidates in which there should not be an adequate convective envelope to excite the γ Dor-type oscillations. The existence of these hot objects needs an explanation. Therefore, we selected, observed, and studied 24 hot γ Dor and hybrid candidates to investigate their properties. The atmospheric parameters, chemical abundances, and v sin  i  values of the candidates were obtained using medium-resolution (R   =  46 000) spectra taken with the Fibre-fed Échelle Spectrograph instrument mounted at the Nordic Optical Telescope. We also carried out frequency analyses of the Kepler long- and short-cadence data to determine the exact pulsation contents. We found only five bona fide hot γ Dor and three bona fide hot hybrid stars in our sample. The other 16 stars were found to be normal γ Dor, δ Sct, or hybrid variables. No chemical peculiarity was detected in the spectra of the bona fide hot γ Dor and hybrid stars. We investigated the interplay between rotation and pulsational modes. We also found that the hot γ Dor stars have higher Gaia luminosities and larger radii compared to main-sequence A–F stars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context. Be stars are physically complex systems that continue to challenge theory to understand their rapid rotation, complex variability, and decretion disks. γCassiopeiae (Cas) is one such star but is even more curious because of its unexplained hard thermal X-ray emission. Aims. We aim to examine the optical variability of γCas and thereby to shed more light on its puzzling behaviour. Methods. We analysed 321 archival Hα spectra from 2006 to 2017 to search for frequencies corresponding to the 203.5 day orbit of the companion. Space photometry from the SMEI satellite from 2003 to 2011 and the BRITE-Constellation of nano-satellites from 2015 to 2019 were investigated in the period range from a couple of hours to a few days. Results. The orbital period of the companion of 203.5 days is confirmed with independent measurements from the structure of the Hff line emission. A strong blue versus red asymmetry in the amplitude distribution across the Hff emission line could hint at a spiral structure in the decretion disk. With the space photometry, the known frequency of 0.82 d-1 is confirmed in data from the early 2000s. A higher frequency of 2.48 d-1 is present in the data from 2015 to 2019 and possibly in the early 2000s as well. A third frequency at 1.25 d-1 is proposed to exist in both SMEI and BRITE data. Seemingly, only a non-radial pulsation interpretation can explain all three variations. The two higher frequencies are incompatible with rotation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ϵ Lupi A is a binary system consisting of two main-sequence early B-type stars Aa and Ab in a short period, moderately eccentric orbit. The close binary pair is the only doubly magnetic massive binary currently known. Using photometric data from the BRITE Constellation we identify a modest heartbeat variation. Combining the photometry with radial velocities of both components we determine a full orbital solution including empirical masses and radii. These results are compared with stellar evolution models as well as interferometry and the differences discussed. We also find additional photometric variability at several frequencies, finding it unlikely these frequencies can be caused by tidally excited oscillations. We do, however, determine that these signals are consistent with gravity mode pulsations typical for slowly pulsating B stars. Finally we discuss how the evolution of this system will be affected by magnetism, determining that tidal interactions will still be dominant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Light curves and periodograms of 160 B stars observed by the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) space mission and 29 main-sequence B stars from Kepler and K2 were used to classify the variability type. There are 114 main-sequence B stars in the TESS sample, of which 45 are classified as possible rotational variables. This confirms previous findings that a large fraction (about 40 per cent) of A and B stars may exhibit rotational modulation. Gaia DR2 parallaxes were used to estimate luminosities, from which the radii and equatorial rotational velocities can be deduced. It is shown that observed values of the projected rotational velocities are lower than the estimated equatorial velocities for nearly all the stars, as they should be if rotation is the cause of the light variation. We conclude that a large fraction of main-sequence B stars appear to contain surface features which cannot likely be attributed to abundance patches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context. The study of stellar structure and evolution depends crucially on accurate stellar parameters. The photometry from space telescopes has provided superb data that enabled the asteroseismic characterisation of thousands of stars. However, typical targets of space telescopes are rather faint and complementary measurements are difficult to obtain. On the other hand, the brightest, otherwise well-studied stars, are lacking seismic characterization. Aims. Our goal is to use the granulation and/or oscillation timescales measured from photometric time series of bright red giants (1.6 ≤ V mag ≤ 5.3) observed with BRITE-Constellation to determine stellar surface gravities and masses. Methods. We used probabilistic methods to characterise the granulation and/or oscillation signal in the power density spectra and the autocorrelation function of the BRITE-Constellation time series. Results. We detect a clear granulation and/or oscillation signal in 23 red giant stars and extract the corresponding timescales from the power density spectra as well as the autocorrelation function of the BRITE-Constellation time series. To account for the recently discovered non-linearity of the classical seismic scaling relations, we used parameters from a large sample of Kepler stars to re-calibrate the scalings of the high- and low-frequency components of the granulation signal. We developed a method to identify which component is measured if only one granulation component is statistically significant in the data. We then used the new scalings to determine the surface gravity of our sample stars, finding them to be consistent with those determined from the autocorrelation signal of the time series. We further used radius estimates from the literature to determine the stellar masses of our sample stars from the measured surface gravities. We also defined a statistical measure for the evolutionary stage of the stars. Conclusions. Our sample of stars covers low-mass stars on the lower giant branch to evolved massive supergiants and even though we cannot verify our mass estimates with independent measurements from the literature, they appear to be at least good enough to separate high-mass from low-mass stars. Given the large known but usually not considered systematic uncertainties in the previous model-based mass estimates, we prefer our model-independent measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context. Stellar rotation affects the transport of chemical elements and angular momentum and is therefore a key process during stellar evolution, which is still not fully understood. This is especially true for massive OB-type stars, which are important for the chemical enrichment of the Universe. It is therefore important to constrain the physical parameters and internal angular momentum distribution of massive OB-type stars to calibrate stellar structure and evolution models. Stellar internal rotation can be probed through asteroseismic studies of rotationally split non radial oscillations but such results are still quite rare, especially for stars more massive than the Sun. The slowly pulsating B9V star HD 201433 is known to be part of a single-lined spectroscopic triple system, with two low-mass companions orbiting with periods of about 3.3 and 154 days. Aims. Our goal is to measure the internal rotation profile of HD 201433 and investigate the tidal interaction with the close companion. Methods. We used probabilistic methods to analyse the BRITE - Constellation photometry and radial velocity measurements, to identify a representative stellar model, and to determine the internal rotation profile of the star. Results. Our results are based on photometric observations made by BRITE - Constellation and the Solar Mass Ejection Imager on board the Coriolis satellite, high-resolution spectroscopy, and more than 96 yr of radial velocity measurements. We identify a sequence of nine frequency doublets in the photometric time series, consistent with rotationally split dipole modes with a period spacing of about 5030 s. We establish that HD 201433 is in principle a solid-body rotator with a very slow rotation period of 297±76 days. Tidal interaction with the inner companion has, however, significantly accelerated the spin of the surface layers by a factor of approximately one hundred. The angular momentum transfer onto the surface of HD 201433 is also reflected by the statistically significant decrease of the orbital period of about 0.9 s during the last 96 yr. Conclusions. Combining the asteroseismic inferences with the spectroscopic measurements and the orbital analysis of the inner binary system, we conclude that tidal interactions between the central SPB star and its inner companion have almost circularised the orbit. They have, however, not yet aligned all spins of the system and have just begun to synchronise rotation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Massive stars play a significant role in the chemical and dynamical evolution of galaxies. However, much of their variability, particularly during their evolved supergiant stage, is poorly understood. To understand the variability of evolved massive stars in more detail, we present a study of the O9.2Ib supergiant ζ Ori Aa, the only currently confirmed supergiant to host a magnetic field. We have obtained two-color space-based BRIght Target Explorer photometry (BRITE) for ζ Ori Aa during two observing campaigns, as well as simultaneous ground-based, high-resolution optical CHIRON spectroscopy. We perform a detailed frequency analysis to detect and characterize the star's periodic variability. We detect two significant, independent frequencies, their higher harmonics, and combination frequencies: the stellar rotation period Prot = 6.82 ± 0.18 d, most likely related to the presence of the stable magnetic poles, and a variation with a period of 10.0 ± 0.3 d attributed to circumstellar environment, also detected in the Ha and several He I lines, yet absent in the purely photospheric lines. We confirm the variability with Prot/4, likely caused by surface inhomogeneities, being the possible photospheric drivers of the discrete absorption components. No stellar pulsations were detected in the data. The level of circumstellar activity clearlydiffers between the two BRITE observing campaigns. We demonstrate that ζ Ori Aa is a highly variable star with both periodic and non-periodic variations, as well as episodic events. The rotation period we determined agrees well with the spectropolarimetric value from the literature. The changing activity level observed with BRITE could explain why the rotational modulation of the magnetic measurements was not clearly detected at all epochs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ɩ Ori is a well-studied massive binary consisting of an O9 ш + B1 ш/IV star. Due to its high eccentricity (e = 0.764) and short orbital period (Porb = 29.133 76 d), it has been considered to be a good candidate to show evidence of tidal effects; however, none have previously been identified. Using photometry from the BRIght Target Explorer (BRITE)-Constellation space photometry mission, we have confirmed the existence of tidal distortions through the presence of a heartbeat signal at periastron. We combine spectroscopic and light-curve analyses to measure the masses and radii of the components, revealing i Ori to be the most massive heartbeat system known to date. In addition, using a thorough frequency analysis, we also report the unprecedented discovery of multiple tidally induced oscillations in an O star. The amplitudes of the pulsations allow us to empirically estimate the tidal circularization rate, yielding an effective tidal quality factor Q + 4 ⨰ 104. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a simultaneous ground- and space-based photometric study of the β Cephei star v Eridani. Half a year of observations have been obtained by four of the five satellites constituting BRITE-Constellation, supplemented with ground-based photoelectric photometry. We show that carefully combining the two data sets virtually eliminates the aliasing problem that often hampers time series analyses. We detect 40 periodic signals intrinsic to the star in the light curves. Despite a lower detection limit, we do not recover all the pressure and mixed modes previously reported in the literature, but we newly detect six additional gravity modes. This behaviour is a consequence of temporal changes in the pulsation amplitudes that we also detected for some of the p modes. We point out that the dependence of theoretically predicted pulsation amplitude on wavelength is steeper in visual passbands than those observationally measured, to the extent that three dominant pulsation modes of v Eridani would be incorrectly identified using data in optical filters only. We discuss possible reasons for this discrepancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a simultaneous ground-and space-based photometric study of the β Cephei star ν Eridani. Half a year of observations have been obtained by four of the five satellites constituting BRITE-Constellation, supplemented with ground-based photoelectric photometry. We show that carefully combining the two data sets virtually eliminates the aliasing problem that often hampers time series analyses. We detect 40 periodic signals intrinsic to the star in the light curves. Despite a lower detection limit, we do not recover all the pressure and mixed modes previously reported in the literature, but we newly detect six additional gravity modes. This behaviour is a consequence of temporal changes in the pulsation amplitudes that we also detected for some of the p modes. We point out that the dependence of theoretically predicted pulsation amplitude on wavelength is steeper in visual passbands than those observationally measured, to the extent that three dominant pulsation modes of ν Eridani would be incorrectly identified using data in optical filters only. We discuss possible reasons for this discrepancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A multisite photometric campaign for the β Cephei and eclipsing variable 16 Lacertae is reported. 749 h of high-quality differential photoelectric Stromgren, Johnson and Geneva time series photometry were obtained with 10 telescopes during 185 nights. After removing the pulsation contribution, an attempt was made to solve the resulting eclipse light curve by means of the computer program EBOP. Although a unique solution was not obtained, the range of solutions could be constrained by comparing computed positions of the secondary component in the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram with evolutionary tracks. For three highamplitude pulsation modes, the uvy and the Geneva UBG amplitude ratios are derived and compared with the theoretical ones for spherical-harmonic degrees l ≤ 4. The highest degree, l = 4, is shown to be incompatible with the observations. One mode is found to be radial, one is l = 1, while in the remaining case l = 2 or 3. The present multisite observations are combined with the archival photometry in order to investigate the long-term variation of the amplitudes and phases of the three high-amplitude pulsation modes. The radial mode shows a non-sinusoidal variation on a time-scale of 73 yr. The l = 1 mode is a triplet with unequal frequency spacing, giving rise to two beat-periods, 720.7 d and 29.1 yr. The amplitude and phase of the l = 2 or 3 mode vary on time-scales of 380.5 d and 43 yr. The light variation of 2 And, one of the comparison stars, is discussed in the appendix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context. The first two of a total of six nano-satellites that will constitute the BRITE-Constellation space photometry mission have recently been launched successfully. Aims. In preparation for this project, we carried out time-resolved colour photometry in a field that is an excellent candidate for BRITE measurements from space. Methods. We acquired 117 h of Strömgren uvy data during 19 nights. Our targets comprised the β Cephei stars κ and λ Sco, the eclipsing binary μ1 Sco, and the variable super/hypergiant ζ 1 Sco. Results. For κ Sco, a photometric mode identification in combination with results from the spectroscopic literature suggests a dominant (l,m) = (1, -1) β Cephei-type pulsation mode of the primary star. The longer period of the star may be a rotational variation or a g-mode pulsation. For λ Sco, we recover the known dominant β Cephei pulsation, a longer-period variation, and observed part of an eclipse. Lack of ultraviolet data precludes mode identification for this star. We noticed that the spectroscopic orbital ephemeris of the closer pair in this triple system is inconsistent with eclipse timings and propose a refined value for the orbital period of the closer pair of 5.95189 ± 0.00003 d.We also argue that the components of the λ Sco system are some 30% more massive than previously thought. The binary light curve solution of μ 1 Sco requires inclusion of the irradiation effect to explain the u light curve, and the system could show additional low amplitude variations on top of the orbital light changes. ζ 1 Sco shows long-term variability on a time scale of at least two weeks that we prefer to interpret in terms of a variable wind or strange mode pulsations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Precision asteroseismology is the determination of accurate stellar parameters from oscillation data. At first successful for pulsating white dwarf stars, it is now applied to more and more types of stars. We give a number of selected examples where precision asteroseismology, but also asteroseismology based on few observables may lead to considerable improvement of stellar astrophysics in the near future. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Low frequency oscillation, typical for γ Doradus g-mode type stellar core sensitive pulsation, as well as higher frequency δ Scuti type pulsation typical for p -modes, sensitive to the envelope, make HD 8801 a remarkable hybrid pulsator with the potential to probe a stellar structure over a wide range of radius. In addition HD 8801 is a rare pulsating metallic line (Am) star. We determined the astro-physical fundamental parameters to locate HD 8801 in the H-R diagram. We analyzed the element abundances, paying close attention to the errors involved, and confirm the nature of HD 8801 as a metallic line (Am) star. We also determined an upper limit on the magnetic field strength. Our abundance analysis is based on classical techniques, but uses for the final step a model atmosphere calculated with the abundances determined by us. We also discuss spectropolarimetric observations obtained for HD 8801. This object is remarkable in several respects. It is a nonmagnetic metallic line (Am) star, pulsating simultaneously in p- and g-modes, but also shows oscillations with periods in between these two domains, whose excitation requires explanation. Overall, the pulsational incidence in unevolved classical Am stars is believed to be quite low; HD 8801 does not conform to this picture. Finally, about 75 % of Am stars are located in short-period binaries, but there is no evidence that HD 8801 has a companion. (© 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT We show that the star KIC 4840675 observed by Kepler is composed of three stars with a rapidly rotating A-type star and two solar-type fainter companions. The A-type star is a δ Scuti variable with a dominant mode and many other modes of lower amplitude, including several low-frequency variations. The low-frequency variation with highest amplitude can be interpreted as rotational modulation with the light curve changing with time. However, the most interesting aspect of this star is a triplet of independent modes in the range 118-129 d−1 (1.4-1.5 mHz), which is far outside the range of typical δ Scuti frequencies. We discuss the possibility that these modes could be solar-like oscillations, oscillations of the roAp type or due to an unseen pulsating compact companion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context. The rapidly oscillating Ap (roAp) stars exhibit short time scale photometric and/or radial velocity variations, which are most important to test current pulsation models as well as our assumptions of the atmospheric structure characteristics. In addition, their chemical peculiarity makes them very interesting for probing stellar formation and evolution in the presence of a global magnetic field. To date, only a limited number of about 45 roAp stars are known. Aims. In order to increase the sample, we obtained photometric time series of 20 good roAp candidates to search for pulsations. Methods. We present the time series analysis of about 60 h of CCD photometry taken at the 1 m Austrian-Croatian Telescope (Hvar Observatory) and derive effective temperatures for the programme objects. Results. The upper amplitude limits of the Fourier spectra are typically below 2 mmag in Bessell B with one good candidate for follow-up observations to find possible pulsation. In addition, we present a list of further roAp candidates, worth to be (re)investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We carried out a multicolour time-series photometric study of six stars claimed as ‘hybrid’ p and g mode pulsators in the literature. γ Peg was confirmed to show short-period oscillations of the β Cep type and simultaneous long-period pulsations typical of Slowly Pulsating B (SPB) stars. From the measured amplitude ratios in the Strömgren uvy passbands, the stronger of the two short period pulsation modes was identified as radial; the second is . Three of the four SPB-type modes are most likely or 2. Comparison with theoretical model calculations suggests that γ Peg is either a radial fundamental mode pulsator or a first radial overtone pulsator. HD 8801 was corroborated as a ‘hybrid’δ Sct/γ Dor star; four pulsation modes of the γ Dor type were detected, and two modes of the δ Sct type were confirmed. Two pulsational signals between the frequency domains of these two known classes of variables were confirmed and another was newly detected. These are either previously unknown types of pulsation or do not originate from HD 8801. The O-type star HD 13745 showed small-amplitude slow variability on a time-scale of 3.2 d. This object may be related to the suspected new type of supergiant SPB stars, but a rotational origin of its light variations cannot be ruled out at this point. 53 Psc is an SPB star for which two pulsation frequencies were determined and identified with low spherical degree. Small-amplitude variability was formally detected for 53 Ari but is suspected not to be intrinsic. The behaviour of ι Her is consistent with non-variability during our observations, and we could not confirm light variations of the comparison star 34 Psc previously suspected. The use of signal-to-noise criteria in the analysis of data sets with strong aliasing is critically discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present the results of a spectroscopic multisite campaign for the β Cephei star 12 (DD) Lacertae. Our study is based on more than thousand high-resolution high S/N spectra gathered with eight different telescopes in a time span of 11 months. In addition, we make use of numerous archival spectroscopic measurements. We confirm 10 independent frequencies recently discovered from photometry, as well as harmonics and combination frequencies. In particular, the slowly pulsating B-stars (SPB)-like g-mode with frequency 0.3428 d−1 reported before is detected in our spectroscopy. We identify the four main modes as and for and , respectively. Our seismic modelling shows that f2 is likely the radial first overtone and that the core overshooting parameter is lower than 0.4 local pressure scale heights. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a detailed study of the pulsation of α Circini, the brightest of the rapidly oscillating Ap stars. We have obtained 84 d of high-precision photometry from four runs with the star tracker on the WIRE satellite. Simultaneously, we collected ground-based Johnson B observations on 16 nights at the South African Astronomical Observatory. In addition to the dominant oscillation mode at 2442 μHz, we detect two new modes that lie symmetrically around the principal mode to form a triplet. The average separation between these modes is and they are nearly equidistant with the separations differing by only 3.9 nHz. We compare the observed frequencies with theoretical pulsation models based on constraints from the recently determined interferometric radius and effective temperature, and the recently updated Hipparcos parallax. We show that the theoretical large separations for models of α Cir with global parameters within the 1σ observational uncertainties vary between 59 and 65 μHz. This is consistent with the large separation being twice the observed value of , indicating that the three main modes are of alternating even and odd degrees. The frequency differences in the triplet are significantly smaller than those predicted from our models, for all possible combinations of mode degrees, and may indicate that the effects of magnetic perturbations need to be taken into account. The WIRE light curves are modulated by a double wave with a period of 4.479 d, and a peak-to-peak amplitude of 4 mmag. This variation is due to the rotation of the star and is a new discovery, made possible by the high precision of the WIRE photometry. The rotational modulation confirms an earlier indirect determination of the rotation period. The main pulsation mode at 2442 μHz has two sidelobes split by exactly the rotation frequency. From the amplitude ratio of the sidelobes to the central peak, we show that the principal mode is consistent with an oblique axisymmetric dipole mode or with a magnetically distorted mode of higher degree with a dominant dipolar component. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pulsating DA white dwarfs are the coolest degenerate stars that undergo self-driven oscillations. Understanding their interior structure will help us to understand the previous evolution of the star. To this end, we report the analysis of more than 200 h of time-resolved CCD photometry of the pulsating DA white dwarf star EC 14012−1446 acquired during four observing epochs in three different years, including a coordinated three-site campaign. A total of 19 independent frequencies in the star's light variations together with 148 combination signals up to fifth order could be detected. We are unable to obtain the period spacing of the normal modes and therefore a mass estimate of the star, but we infer a fairly short rotation period of , assuming the rotationally split modes are . The pulsation modes of the star undergo amplitude and frequency variations, in the sense that modes with higher radial overtone show more pronounced variability and that amplitude changes are always accompanied by frequency variations. Most of the second-order combination frequencies detected have amplitudes that are a function of their parent mode amplitudes, but we found a few cases of possible resonantly excited modes. We point out the complications in the analysis and interpretation of data sets of pulsating white dwarfs that are affected by combination frequencies of the form intruding into the frequency range of the independent modes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have carried out single and multisite photometry of the three β Cephei stars β and 15 CMa as well as KZ Mus. For the two stars in CMa, we obtained 270 h of measurement in the Strömgren uvy and Johnson V filters, while 150 h of time-resolved Strömgren uvy photometry was acquired for KZ Mus. All three stars are multiperiodic variables, with three (β CMa) and four (15 CMa, KZ Mus) independent pulsation modes. Two of the mode frequencies of 15 CMa are new discoveries and one of the known modes showed amplitude variations over the last 33 yr. Taken together, this fully explains the diverse behaviour of the star reported in the literature. Mode identification by means of the amplitude ratios in the different passbands suggests one radial mode for each star. In addition, β CMa has a dominant mode while its third mode is non-radial with unknown ℓ. The non-radial modes of 15 CMa, which are , form an almost equally split triplet that, if physical, would imply that we see the star under an inclination angle larger than 55°. The strongest non-radial mode of KZ Mus is , followed by the radial mode and a dipole mode. Its weakest known mode is non-radial with unknown ℓ, confirming previous mode identifications for the pulsations of the star. The phased light curve for the strongest mode of 15 CMa has a descending branch steeper than the rising branch. A stillstand phenomenon during the rise to maximum light is indicated. Given the low photometric amplitude of this non-radial mode this is at first sight surprising, but it can be explained by the aspect angle of the mode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We undertook a time-series photometric multisite campaign for the rapidly oscillating Ap (roAp) star HD 99563 and also acquired mean light observations over four seasons. The pulsations of the star, which show flatter light maxima than minima, can be described with a frequency quintuplet centred on 1557.653 μHz and some first harmonics of it. The amplitude of the pulsation is modulated with the rotation period of the star that we determine with 2.91179 ± 0.00007 d from the analysis of the stellar pulsation spectrum and of the mean light data. We break up the distorted oscillation mode into its pure spherical harmonic components and find it is dominated by the ℓ= 1 pulsation, and also has a notable ℓ= 3 contribution, with weak ℓ= 0 and 2 components. The geometrical configuration of the star allows us to see both pulsation poles for about the same amount of time; HD 99563 is only the fourth roAp star for which both pulsation poles are seen and only the third where the distortion of the pulsation modes has been modelled. We point out that HD 99563 is very similar to the well-studied roAp star HR 3831. Finally, we note that the visual companion of HD 99563 is located in the δ Scuti instability strip and may thus show pulsation. We show that if the companion was physical, the roAp star would be a 2.03-M⊙, object, seen at a rotational inclination of 44°, which then predicts a magnetic obliquity . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a multisite photometric campaign for the β Cephei star 12 Lacertae. 750 h of high-quality differential photoelectric Strömgren, Johnson and Geneva time-series photometry were obtained with nine telescopes during 190 nights. Our frequency analysis results in the detection of 23 sinusoidal signals in the light curves. Ten of those correspond to independent pulsation modes, and the remainder are combination frequencies. We find some slow aperiodic variability such as that seemingly present in several β Cephei stars. We perform mode identification from our colour photometry, derive the spherical degree ℓ for the five strongest modes unambiguously and provide constraints on ℓ for the weaker modes. We find a mixture of modes of . In particular, we prove that the previously suspected rotationally split triplet within the modes of 12 Lac consists of modes of different ℓ; their equal frequency splitting must thus be accidental. One of the periodic signals we detected in the light curves is argued to be a linearly stable mode excited to visible amplitude by non-linear mode coupling via a 2:1 resonance. We also find a low-frequency signal in the light variations whose physical nature is unclear; it could be a parent or daughter mode resonantly coupled. The remaining combination frequencies are consistent with simple light-curve distortions. The range of excited pulsation frequencies of 12 Lac may be sufficiently large that it cannot be reproduced by standard models. We suspect that the star has a larger metal abundance in the pulsational driving zone, a hypothesis also capable of explaining the presence of β Cephei stars in the Large Magellanic Cloud. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have carried out a three-site photometric campaign for the β Cephei star θ Oph from 2003 April to August. 245 h of differential photoelectric u v y photometry were obtained during 77 clear nights. The frequency analysis of our measurements has resulted in the detection of seven pulsation modes within a narrow frequency interval between 7.116 and 7.973 c d−1. No combination or harmonic frequencies have been found. We have performed a mode identification of the individual pulsations from our colour photometry that shows the presence of one radial mode, one rotationally split triplet and possibly three components of a rotationally split quintuplet. We discuss the implications of our findings and point out the similarity of the pulsation spectrum of θ Oph to that of another β Cephei star, V836 Cen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using the large photometric and spectroscopic data sets of the ν Eridani multisite campaign given in our two recent papers (Aerts et al. and Handler et al.), we present an extended frequency analysis and a photometric mode identification. For the extended frequency analysis, we used an improved radial velocity time series, the second-moment time series and the line profiles themselves. In the radial velocity time series, we can now detect an additional pulsation frequency that was previously only found in photometric time series. We also report several new candidate pulsation frequencies. For seven frequencies, the photometric mode identification indicates that they belong to a radial mode and six dipole modes, and for three frequencies the degree ℓ could not be unambiguously determined. We also placed ν Eri in the Hertzsprung–Russell diagram by determining using Geneva plus Strömgren photometric calibrations, spectral energy distribution fitting, by non-local thermodynamic equilibrium hydrogen, helium and silicon line profile fitting, and by determining using the Hipparcos parallax and an Hβ calibration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The oscillation spectrum of ν Eri is the richest known for any variable of the β Cephei type. We interpret the spectrum in terms of normal mode excitation and construct seismic models of the star. The frequency data combined with data on mean colours set the upper limit on the extent of overshooting from the convective core. We use data on rotational splitting of two dipole (ℓ= 1) modes (g1 and p1) to infer properties of the internal rotation rate. Adopting a plausible hypothesis of nearly uniform rotation in the envelope and increasing rotation rate in the μ-gradient zone, we find that the mean rotation rate in this zone is about three times faster than in the envelope. In our standard model only the modes in the middle part of the oscillation spectrum are unstable. To account for excitation of a possible high-order g mode at ν= 0.43 cd−1 as well as p modes at ν > 6 cd−1 we have to invoke an overabundance of Fe in the driving zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT We have acquired between 127 and 150 h of time-resolved multicolour photometry for each of the three β Cephei stars IL Vel, V433 Car and KZ Mus over a time-span of 4 months from two observatories. All three objects are multiperiodic with at least three modes of pulsation. Mode identification from the relative colour amplitudes is performed. We obtain unambiguous results for the two highest-amplitude modes of IL Vel (both are ℓ= 1 ) and the three strongest modes of KZ Mus ( ℓ= 2, 0 and 1), but none for V433 Car. Spectroscopy shows the latter star to be a fast rotator (v sin i= 240 km s[sup -1]) , whereas the other two have moderate v sin i (65 and 47 km s[sup -1], respectively). We performed model calculations using the Warsaw–New Jersey stellar evolution and pulsation code. We find that IL Vel is an object of about 12 M[sub ⊙] in the second half of its main-sequence evolutionary track. Its two dipole modes are most probably rotationally split components of the mode originating as p[sub 1] on the zero-age main sequence; one of these modes is m= 0 . V433 Car is suggested to be an unevolved 13-M[sub ⊙] star just entering the β Cephei instability strip. KZ Mus seems less massive (≈12.7 M[sub ⊙]) and somewhat more evolved, and its radial mode is probably the fundamental one. In this case its quadrupole mode would be the one originating as g[sub 1] , and its dipole mode would be p[sub 1] . Two of our photometric comparison stars also turned out to be variable. HD 90434 is probably a new slowly pulsating B-type star, the dominant mode of which is a dipole, whereas the variability of HD 89768 seems to be a result of binarity. It is suggested that mode identification of slowly rotating β Cephei stars based on photometric colour amplitudes is reliable; we estimate that a relative accuracy of 3 per cent in the amplitudes is sufficient for unambiguous identifications. Owing to the good agreement of our theoretical and observational results we conclude that the prospects for asteroseismology of multiperiodic slowly rotating β Cephei stars are good. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have acquired new time series photometry of the two pulsating DB white dwarf stars KUV 05134+2605 and PG 1654+160 with the Whole Earth Telescope. Additional single-site photometry is also presented. We use all these data plus all available archival measurements to study the temporal behaviour of the pulsational amplitudes and frequencies of these stars for the first time. We demonstrate that both KUV 05134+2605 and PG 1654+160 pulsate in many modes, the amplitudes of which are variable in time; some frequency variability of PG 1654+160 is also indicated. Beating of multiple pulsation modes cannot explain our observations; the amplitude variability must therefore be intrinsic. We cannot find stable modes to be used for determinations of the evolutionary period changes of the stars. Some of the modes of PG 1654+160 appear at the same periods whenever detected. The mean spacing of these periods (≈40 s) suggests that they are probably caused by non-radial gravity-mode pulsations of spherical degree l = 1. If so, PG 1654+160 has a mass around 0.6 M[sub ⊙]. The time-scales of the amplitude variability of both stars (down to two weeks) are consistent with theoretical predictions of resonant mode coupling, a conclusion which might however be affected by the temporal distribution of our data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract We present the results of a photometric multi-colour, two-site observing campaign of β Cephei stars in the young open cluster NGC 4755. More than 260 h of time-series U , B , V filter data of the cluster were acquired on two continents during 1999 and 2000. We list the detected pulsation frequencies and discuss the results of their analysis. Mode identification of the detected modes is performed as well. In addition, we present the detection of four new variable stars in NGC 4755. We give frequency solutions as indicators of the time-scales and amplitudes of the pulsations. NGC 4755-116 is probably a B2 dwarf with a period of 4.2 d whose variability is caused by a spot or g-mode pulsation. NGC 4755-405 can be considered as a new β Cephei star with two pulsation frequencies. For NGC 4755-215 we found one frequency and for NGC 4755-316 three pulsation frequencies; we suggest that both are new slowly pulsating B stars of short period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of a multisite photometric campaign of θ[SUP2] Tau are reported. This binary system consists of an evolved and a main-sequence A star, both situated inside the instability strip. The 12th Delta Scuti Network campaign included 152 h of high-precision photometry obtained at four observatories. This leads to the derivation of 11 frequencies of pulsation in the 10.8 to 14.6 cycle d[SUP-1] range. These frequencies confirm the results from previous Earth-based (1982-1986) as well as satellite (2000) photometry, although amplitude variability on a time-scale of several years is present. We show that at least two high frequencies (26.18 and 26.73 cycle d[SUP-1]) are also present in θ[SUP2] Tau. Arguments are given that these high frequencies originate in the main-sequence companion and are not combination frequencies, fi + fi, from the primary. Models for both the primary and the secondary components were checked for the instability against radial and non-radial oscillations. All hot models of the primary with T[SUBeff] > 8000 K are stable in the observed frequency range. The best fit between the theoretical and observed frequency ranges is achieved for models with T[SUBeff] ≈ 7800 K (or slightly higher), in agreement with photometric calibrations. The instability range spans two or three radial orders in the range p[SUB4] to p[SUB6] for radial modes. Post-main-sequence models (with or without overshooting) are preferable for the primary, but main-sequence models with overshooting cannot be excluded. For the less-luminous secondary component the instability range is wider and spans 5 to 7 radial orders from p[SUB2] to p[SUB8]. The observed frequencies lie around radial modes p[SUB5] to p[SUB6]. The main uncertainties of these results are caused by a simple treatment of the convective flux in the hydrogen ionization zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract We have acquired 65 h of single-site time-resolved CCD photometry of the pulsating DB white dwarf star (DBV) CBS 114 and 62 h of two-site high-speed CCD photometry of another DBV, PG 1456+103. The pulsation spectrum of PG 1456+103 is complicated and variable on time-scales of approximately 1 week and could only partly be deciphered with our measurements. The modes of CBS 114 are more stable in time and we were able to arrive at a frequency solution somewhat affected by aliasing, but still satisfactory, involving seven independent modes and two combination frequencies. These frequencies also explain the discovery data of the star, taken 13 yr earlier. We find a mean period spacing of 37.1 ± 0.7 s significant at the 98 per cent level between the independent modes of CBS 114 and argue that they are caused by non-radial g-mode pulsations of spherical degree ℓ= 1 . We performed a global search for asteroseismological models of CBS 114 using a genetic algorithm, and we examined the susceptibility of the results to the uncertainties of the observational frequency determinations and mode identifications (we could not provide m values). The families of possible solutions are identified correctly even without knowledge of m. Our best-fitting model suggests T[sub eff]= 21 000 K, M[sub *]= 0.730 M[sub ⊙] and log(M[sub He]/M[sub *]) =-6.66, X[sub O]= 0.61 . The latter value of the central oxygen mass fraction implies a rate for the [sup 12]C(α,γ)[sup 16]O nuclear reaction near S[sub 300]= 180 keV b , consistent with laboratory measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present the analysis of 1 week of single-site high-speed CCD photometric observations of the cool ZZ Ceti star HS 0507+0434B. 10 independent frequencies are detected in the light variations of the star: one singlet and three nearly equally spaced triplets. We argue that these triplets are caused by rotationally split modes of spherical degree ℓ= 1. This is the first detection of consistent multiplet structure in the amplitude spectrum of a cool ZZ Ceti star and it allows us to determine the rotation period of the star: 1.70 ± 0.11 d. We report exactly equal frequency, not period, spacings between the detected mode groups. In addition, certain pairs of modes from the four principal groups have frequency ratios that are very close to 3 : 4 or 4 : 5; while these ratios are nearly exact (within one part in 10 [sup 4]), they still lie outside the computed error bars. We speculate that these relationships between different frequencies could be caused by resonances. One of the three triplets may not be constant in amplitude and/or frequency. We compare our frequency solution for the combination frequencies (of which we detected 38) to Wu's model thereof. We obtain consistent results when trying to infer the convective thermal time and the inclination angle of the rotational axis of the star. Theoretical combination-frequency amplitude spectra also resemble those of the observations well, and direct theoretical predictions of the observed second-order light-curve distortions were also reasonably successful assuming the three triplets are caused by ℓ= 1 modes. Attempts to reproduce the observed combination frequencies adopting all possible ℓ= 2 identifications for the triplets did not provide similarly consistent results, supporting their identification with ℓ= 1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have discovered both intermediate-order gravity mode and low-order pressure mode pulsation in the same star, HD 209295. It is therefore both a γ Doradus and a δ Scuti star, which makes it the first pulsating star to be a member of two classes. The analysis of our 128 h of multisite spectroscopic observations carried out over two seasons reveals that the star is a single-lined spectroscopic binary with an orbital period of 3.10575±0.00010 d and an eccentricity of 0.352±0.011. Only weak pulsational signals are found in both the radial velocity and line-profile variations, but we have succeeded in showing that the two highest-amplitude γ Doradus pulsation modes are consistent with ℓ=1 and |m|=1. These two modes dominated our 280 h of BVI[sub C] multisite photometry, also obtained over two seasons. We detected altogether ten frequencies in the light variations, one in the δ Scuti regime and nine in the γ Doradus domain. Five of the γ Doradus frequencies are exact integer multiples of the orbital frequency. This observation leads us to suspect they are tidally excited. Attempts to identify modes from the multicolour photometry failed. We performed model calculations and a stability analysis of the pulsations. The frequency range in which δ Scuti modes are excited agrees well with observations. However, our models do not show excitation of γ Doradus pulsations, although the damping is smaller in the observed range. We also investigated tidal excitation of γ Doradus modes. Some of the observed harmonics of the orbital period were found to be unstable. The observed orbital harmonics which are stable in the models can be understood as linear combinations of the unstable modes. We could not detect the secondary component of the system in infrared photometry, suggesting that it may not be a main-sequence star. Archival data of this star show that it has a strong ultraviolet (UV) excess, the origin of which is not known. The orbit of the primary is consistent with a secondary mass of M>1.04 M[sub ⊙], which is indicative of a neutron star, although a white dwarf companion is not ruled out. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We searched for δ Scuti-type pulsations amongst known and candidate γ Doradus stars. The motivations for such a project come from the need to understand the relationship of these two classes of pulsator better, from the present poor knowledge of the hot border of the γ Doradus phenomenon, and from the exciting prospects for asteroseismology should stars be found which have both types of pulsation excited. We acquired 270 h of observations and monitored a total of 26 stars. One target, HD 209295, turned out to be a member of both classes of pulsating star, but this object is peculiar in the sense that it is a close binary. We classify six of our targets as new bona fide γ Doradus stars, whereas nine more are good γ Doradus candidates, and three turned out to be ellipsoidal variables. One of our programme stars was found to be a δ Scuti star, with no additional γ Doradus variations. Furthermore, one star was already known to be a bona fide γ Doradus star, and we could not find an unambiguous explanation for the variability of five more stars. The analysis of our data together with improved knowledge of stars from the literature enabled us to revise the blue border of the γ Doradus phenomenon towards cooler temperatures. This new blue edge is much better defined than the previous one and extends from a temperature of about 7550 K on the ZAMS to 7400 K one magnitude above it. Five bona fide γ Doradus stars we observed are located inside the δ Scuti instability strip, but none of them exhibited observable δ Scuti pulsations. We therefore suggest that γ Doradus stars are less likely to be δ Scuti pulsators compared with other normal stars in the same region of the lower instability strip. In addition, we show that there is a clear separation between the pulsation constants Q of δ Scuti and γ Doradus stars. The γ Doradus stars known to date all have Q>0.23 d. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We undertook two time-series photometric multisite campaigns for the rapidly oscillating Ap star HD 122970. The first one, conducted in 1998, resulted in 119 h of data and in the detection of three pulsation frequencies. The presence of possible further modes which held the promise of deriving a mode identification motivated a second worldwide campaign in the year 2001. This second campaign resulted in 203 h of measurement, but did not reveal further modes. Rather, one of the previously detected signals disappeared. The two modes common to both data sets have different spherical degree. They also showed slight frequency modulation, and one of them varied in amplitude as well. Possible causes of the latter behaviour include intrinsic instability of the pulsation spectrum or precession of the pulsational axis and orbital motion in a binary system. Frequency analysis of the Hipparcos observations of the star did not allow us to determine the stellar rotation period. The amplitude and phase behaviour of the two modes of HD 122970 in the Strömgren uvby bands is quite similar to that observed for other roAp stars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A multisite campaign of BI CMi was carried out with excellent frequency resolution and high photometric accuracy from 1997 to 2000, including two long observing seasons. 29 pulsation frequencies could be extracted from the 1024 h (177 nights) of photometry used. The detected frequencies include 20 pulsation modes in the main pulsation frequency range from 4.8 to 13.0 cycle d[sup -1] (55 to 150 μHz), eight linear combinations of these frequencies, and a very low frequency at 1.66 cycle d[sup -1]. Since the value of the low frequency at 1.66 cycle d[sup -1] cannot be identified with a linear combination of other frequencies, g-mode pulsation is suspected, but rotational modulation of abundance spots cannot be ruled out. BI CMi, which is situated near the cool edge of the classical instability strip, may be both a δ Scuti and a γ Doradus star. Another outstanding property of BI CMi is the presence of a number of close frequency pairs in the power spectrum with separations as small as 0.01 cycle d[sup -1]. A rotational velocity of v sin i=76±1 km s[sup -1] was determined from a high-dispersion spectrum. From phase differences, the dominant modes can be identified with ℓ values from 0 to 2. The spectral type and evolutionary status of BI CMi are examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Time-series photometry of the Hipparcos variable stars HD 199434 and 21190 is reported. Both stars are pulsators of the δ Scuti type. Reclassifications of the MK types of the stars, based on new spectrograms, are given. HD 21190 is found to be F2III SrEuSi:, making it the most evolved Ap star known. Its Strömgren photometric indices support the peculiar spectral type. It is also one of the most evolved δ Scuti stars known. Its combined Ap–δ Scuti nature makes it an important test of models of pulsation in peculiar stars recently developed by Turcotte et al., although it is more extreme than any model they examined. Physical parameters of both stars are estimated from Strömgren and Hβ photometry, and Hipparcos absolute magnitudes. We attempt mode identifications based on amplitude ratios and phase differences from our photometry. The dominant pulsation of HD 21190 may be an overtone radial mode. The model fits for HD 199434 are even less satisfactory, but favour an ℓ=2 mode. Given the good quality and wavelength coverage of our data, the poor results from the application of the photometric theory of mode identification may call into question the use of that technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present new multicolour photometry and simultaneous high-dispersion spectroscopy for the δ Scuti star 1 Mon. The two main periodicities in the star are still present, but the third known period is not directly detected in the new radial velocities or light variations. However, it is detected in the periodogram of the second moment of the line profile variations. We use the cross-correlation function as an approximation for the line profile variations. By computing theoretical profiles for a given mode and comparing them with phased cross-correlation profiles, we are able to determine a goodness-of-fit criterion and estimate the most probable spherical harmonic degree, ℓ, the azimuthal order, m, of the pulsation and also the angle of inclination. We then compare the relative amplitudes and phases of the photometric variations in five wavebands and obtain the best estimates of ℓ for the two visible periodicities. We confirm the earlier determinations that the main periodicity is a radial mode and that the other periodicity is probably ℓ= 1 , m[sup -] =- 1. We show that the line profile variations and light variations give consistent results. We point out the importance of a long wavelength range when using the photometric mode identification technique. Finally, we attempt to match the two periods with unstable modes from linear, non-adiabatic calculations. We are able to show that the principal period is well matched by either the fundamental or first overtone radial mode, but could not find a satisfactory fit to the ℓ= 1 mode. We discuss implications for mode identification of δ Scuti stars based on what we have learned from this star. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report multisite observations devoted to the main-sequence δ Scuti star XX Pyx, conducted as the 17th run of the Delta Scuti Network. Over 125 nights a total of 550 h of usable time-series photometric B- and V-filter data were acquired involving both photoelectric and CCD measurements at eight observatories spread around the world, which represents the most extensive single time-series for any pulsating star other than the Sun obtained so far. We describe our observations and reduction methods, and present the frequency analysis of our new data. First, we detect six new pulsation and five new combination frequencies in the star's light curves. We also discover evidence for amplitude and/or frequency variations of some of the modes during the observations. These can occur on time-scales as short as 20 d and show quite diverse behaviour. To take them into account in the frequency analysis, a so-called non-linear frequency analysis method was developed, allowing us to quantify the temporal variability of the modes and to compensate for it. Following that we continue the frequency search and we also incorporate published multisite observations. In this way, we reveal three more pulsation and two more combination frequencies. In the end, we report a total of 30 significant frequencies – 22 of which correspond to independent pulsation modes. This is the largest number of independent modes ever detected in the light curves of a δ Scuti star. The frequencies of the modes show preferred separations as already suggested by previous work on this star; they are also arranged in clear patterns. These results lead to a refinement of the stellar mean density [equation] and to a new constraint on the rotation rate of XX Pyx (ν[sub rot]=1.1±0.3 d[sup -1]). However, our attempts to identify the modes by pattern recognition failed. Moreover, mode identification from multicolour photometry failed as well because the high pulsation frequencies make this method unfavourable. The diverse behaviour of the amplitude and frequency variations of some of the modes leaves resonances as the only presently known possibility for their explanation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because PG 2303+243 had not been observed since 1992, we have arranged the mini-campaign of six observatories on PG 2303+243 in 2004 Sep. 5-21 for the more detailed frequency analysis of variations. The amplitudes of the most frequencies change even during the one night and some frequencies can disappear or appear in one year. Probably it is resonance effect. We have estimated 69 frequencies of pulsations and their amplitudes according the observations from 2004 and 36 frequencies and its amplitudes from 2005. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]