Search

The authors thank the anonymous referee for the useful comments that improved the article. CMC acknowledges the support of CNPq, Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Cientifico e Tecnologico Brazil, process number 141714/2016-6. This study was financed in part by the Coordenacao de Aperfeicoamento de Pessoal de Nivel Superior - Brasil (CAPES) - Finance Code 001. LB acknowledges support fromCONICYT (Comision Nacional de Investigacion Cientifica y Tecnologica) project Basal AFB-170002. EM acknowledges support from the Brazilian agencies FAPESP (Fundacao de Amparo a Pesquisa do Estado de Sao Paulo, grant 2014/22095-6) and CNPq (grant 150465/2019-0). MC acknowledges the financial support from theEuropean Union'sHorizon 2020 research and innovation program under the Marie Sklodowska-Curie grant agreement no 872081; from the Spanish National Research, Development, and Innovation plan (RDI plan) under the project PID2019-104002GB-C21; the Consejeria de Conocimiento, Investigacion y Universidad, Junta de Andalucia and European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), ref. SOMM17/6105/UGR; the Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovacion y Universidades (ref. COOPB20364); and by the Centro de Estudios Avanzados en Fisica, Matematicas y Computacion (CEAFMC) of the University of Huelva., Isocyanic acid (HNCO) is a simple molecule with a potential to form prebiotic and complex organic species. Using a spectral survey collected with the Atacama Pathfinder EXperiment, in this work we report the detection of 42 transitions of HNCO in the hot molecular core/outflow G331.512-0.103 (hereafter G331). The spectral lines were observed in the frequency interval ∼160–355 GHz. By means of Local Thermodynamic Equilibrium analyses, applying the rotational diagram method, we studied the excitation conditions of HNCO. The excitation temperature and column density are estimated to be Tex= 58.8 ± 2.7 K and N = (3.7 ± 0.5) × 1015 cm−2, considering beam dilution effects. The derived relative abundance is between (3.8 ± 0.5) × 10−9 and (1.4 ± 0.2) × 10−8. In comparison with other hot molecular cores, our column densities and abundances are in agreement. An update of the internal partition functions of the four CHNO isomers: HNCO; cyanic acid, HOCN; fulminic acid, HCNO; and isofulminic acid, HONC is provided. We also used the astrochemical code NAUTILUS to model and discuss HNCO abundances. The simulations could reproduce the abundances with a simple zero-dimensional model at a temperature of 60 K and for a chemical age of ∼105 yr, which is larger than the estimated dynamical age for G331. This result could suggest the need for a more robust model and even the revision of chemical reactions associated with HNCO., Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Cientifico e Tecnologico (CNPQ) 141714/2016-6, Coordenacao de Aperfeicoamento de Pessoal de Nivel Superior (CAPES) 001, Comision Nacional de Investigacion Cientifica y Tecnologica (CONICYT) Basal AFB-170002, Fundacao de Amparo a Pesquisa do Estado de Sao Paulo (FAPESP) 2014/22095-6, Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Cientifico e Tecnologico (CNPQ) 150465/2019-0, European Union'sHorizon 2020 research and innovation program under the Marie Sklodowska-Curie grant 872081, Spanish National Research, Development, and Innovation plan (RDI plan) PID2019-104002GB-C21, Consejeria de Conocimiento, Investigacion y Universidad, Junta de Andalucia, European Commission SOMM17/6105/UGR, Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovacion y Universidades COOPB20364, Centro de Estudios Avanzados en Fisica, Matematicas y Computacion (CEAFMC) of the University of Huelva

Massive stars leave their imprint on the interstellar medium as they radiate their energy and undergo episodes of mass ejection throughout their lives. In this paper, we analyse the case of the Wolf–Rayet star WR16 combining archival multiwavelength data with new molecular observations obtained with the Atacama Submillimeter Telescope Experiment (ASTE). Our results suggest that during the main-sequence phase, WR16 swept up the surrounding gas creating a molecular structure (which we call Component 1) which also contains very cold dust observed in the infrared band. In a subsequent stage of evolution, as an LBV, the star underwent mass eruptions that were later overrun by the fast winds of the current WR phase. The final result is the round nebula revealed by the optical and IR images, and the molecular clumps detected. We have also computed the peculiar velocity of WR16 using Gaia data and, accordingly, confirm it as a runaway star. We propose that several features observed in different wavelengths can be explained under a bow-shock scenario linked to the high velocity of WR16.

Aims. With the aim of studying the physical properties of Galactic IR bubbles and to explore their impact in massive star formation, we present a study of the IR bubble S169, associated with the massive star forming region IRAS 12326-6245. Methods. We used CO(2-1),13CO(2-1), C18O(2-1), HCN(3-2), and HCO+ (3-2) line data obtained with the APEX telescope using the on-the-fly full sampling technique to study the properties of the molecular gas in the nebula and the IRAS source . To analyze the properties and distribution of the dust, we made use of images obtained from the IRAC-GLIMPSE, Herschel, and ATLASGAL archives. The properties of the ionized gas in the nebula were studied using radio continuum and Hα images obtained from the SUMSS survey and SuperCOSMOS database, respectively. In our search for stellar and protostellar objects in the region, we used point source calalogs obtained from the MSX, WISE, GLIMPSE, 2MASS, AAVSO, ASCC-2.5V3, and GAIA databases. Results. The new APEX observations allowed us to identify three molecular components, each one associated with different regions of the nebula, namely: at −39 km s−1 (component A), −25 km s−1 (component B), and −17 km s−1 (component C). Component A is shown to be the most dense and clumpy. Six molecular condensations (MC1 to MC6) were identified in this component, with MC3 (the densest and more massive one) being the molecular counterpart of IRAS 12326-6245. For this source, we estimated an H2 column density up to 8×1023 cm−2 . An LTE analysis of the high density tracer lines HCO+ (3-2) and HCN(3-2) on this source, assuming 50 and 150 K, respectively, indicates column densities of N(HCO+) = (5.2 ± 0.1) × 1013 cm−2 and N(HCN) = (1.9 ± 0.5) × 1014 cm−2. To explain the morphology and velocity of components A, B, and C , we propose a simple model consisting of a partially complete semisphere-like structure expanding at ∼ 12 km s−1. The introduction of this model has led to a discussion about the distance to both S169 and IRAS 12326-6245, which was estimated to be ∼ 2 kpc. Several candidate YSOs were identified, projected mostly onto the molecular condensations MC3, MC4, and MC5, which indicates that the star-formation process is very active at the borders of the nebula. A comparison between observable and modeled parameters was not enough to discern whether the collect-and-collapse mechanism is acting at the edge of S169. However, other processes such as radiative-driven implosion or even a combination of both mechanisms, namely, collect-and-collapse and radiative-driven implosion, could be acting simultaneously in the region., Instituto de Astrofísica de La Plata

Using APEX-1 and APEX-2 observations, we have detected and studied the rotational lines of the HC₃N molecule (cyanoacetylene) in the powerful outflow/hot molecular core G331.512−0.103. We identified 31 rotational lines at J levels between 24 and 39; 17 of them in the ground vibrational state v = 0 (9 lines corresponding to the main C isotopologue and 8 lines corresponding to the ¹³C isotopologues), and 14 in the lowest vibrationally excited state v₇ = 1. Using local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE)-based population diagrams for the beam-diluted v = 0 transitions, we determined Texc = 85 ± 4 K and N(HC₃N) = (6.9 ± 0.8) × 10¹⁴ cm⁻², while for the beam-diluted v₇ = 1 transitions we obtained Texc= 89 ± 10 K and N(HC₃N) = (2 ± 1) × 10¹⁵ cm⁻². Non-LTE calculations using H₂ collision rates indicate that the HC3N emission is in good agreement with LTE-based results. From the non-LTE method, we estimated Tkin ≃90 K, n(H₂) ≃ 2 × 10⁷ cm⁻³ for a central core of 6 arcsec in size. A vibrational temperature in the range from 130 to 145 K was also determined, values which are very likely lower limits. Our results suggest that rotational transitions are thermalized, while infrared radiative pumping processes are probably more efficient than collisions in exciting the molecule to the vibrationally excited state v₇ = 1. Abundance ratios derived under LTE conditions for the ¹³C isotopologues suggest that the main formation pathway of HC₃N is C₂H₂ + CN → HC₃N + H., Instituto Argentino de Radioastronomía, Facultad de Ciencias Astronómicas y Geofísicas

Star-forming regions are usually studied in the context of Galactic surveys, but dedicated observations are sometimes needed when the study reaches beyond the survey area. Here, we studied the G345.5+1.5 region, which is located slightly above the Galactic plane, to understand its star formation properties. We combined the LABOCA and $^{12}$CO(4$-$3) transition line observations complemented with the Hi-GAL and $\it{Spitzer}$-GLIMPSE surveys to study the star formation toward this region. We used the Clumpfind algorithm to extract the clumps from the 870$\mu$m and $^{12}$CO(4$-$3) data. Radio emission at 36cm was used to estimate the number of HII regions and to remove the contamination from the free-free emission at 870$\mu$m. We employed color-color diagrams and spectral energy distribution slopes to distinguish between prestellar and protostellar clumps. We studied the boundedness of the clumps through the virial parameter. Finally, we estimated the star formation efficiency and star formation rate of the region and used the Schmidt-Kennicutt diagram to compare its ability to form stars. Of the 13 radio sources that we found using the MGPS-2 catalog, 7 are found to be associated with HII regions corresponding to late-B or early-O stars. We found 45 870$\mu$m clumps, and 107 $^{12}$CO clumps. More than 50\% of the clumps are protostellar and bounded and are able to host star formation. High SFR and SFR density values are associated with the region, with an SFE of a few percent. With submillimeter, CO transition, and short-wavelength infrared observations, our study reveals a population of massive stars, protostellar and bound starless clumps, toward G345.5+1.5. This region is therefore actively forming stars, and its location in the starburst quadrant of the Schmidt-Kennicutt diagram is comparable to other star-forming regions found within the Galactic plane., Comment: 20 pages - 15 figures

We analyze the molecular gas and dust associated with the infrared dark cloud SDC341.232-0.268 in order to investigate the characteristics and parameters of the gas, determine the evolutionary status of four embedded EGO candidates, and es- tablish possible infall or outflow gas motions. We base our study on 12CO(2-1), 13CO(2-1), and C18O(2-1) data obtained with the APEX telescope, molecular data of high density tracers from the MALT90 survey and IR images from Spitzer, Herschel and ATLASGAL. The study reveals two clumps at −44 km s−1 towards the IRDC, with densities of > 104cm−3, typical of IRDCs, while high density tracers show H2 densities > 105. FIR images reveals the presence of cold dust linked to the molecular clumps and EGOs. A comparison of the spectra of the optically thin and optically thick molecular lines towards the EGOs suggests the existence of infall and outflow motions., Analizamos el gas molecular y el polvo asociado a la nube oscura infrarroja SDC341.232-0.268 con el fin de investigar las características y parámetros físicos del gas, determinar el estado evolutivo de los cuatro EGOs embebidos y establecer posibles movimientos de acreción o flujo molecular. Nos basamos en datos de 12CO(2-1), 13CO(2-1) y C18O(2-1) obtenidos con el telescopio APEX, trazadores de alta densidad extraídos de MALT90, e imágenes infrarrojas de Spitzer, Herschel y ATLASGAL. El estudio revela dos grumos moleculares a −44 km s−1 coincidentes con la IRDC con una densidad > 104cm−3, típica de IRDCs. Los trazadores de alta densidad arrojan densidades de H2 > 105. Las imágenes en el lejano IR muestran polvo frío asociado a los grumos moleculares y a los EGOs. La comparación de espectros moleculares ópticamente gruesos y finos sugiere la existencia de acreción y flujos moleculares., Facultad de Ciencias Astronómicas y Geofísicas

Spectral line surveys reveal rich molecular reservoirs in G331.512-0.103, a compact radio source in the center of an energetic molecular outflow. In this first work, we analyse the physical conditions of the source by means of CH$_3$OH and CH$_3$CN. The observations were performed with the APEX telescope. Six different system configurations were defined to cover most of the band within (292-356) GHz; as a consequence we detected a forest of lines towards the central core. A total of 70 lines of $A/E$-CH$_3$OH and $A/E$-CH$_3$CN were analysed, including torsionally excited transitions of CH$_3$OH ($\nu_t$=1). In a search for all the isotopologues, we identified transitions of $^{13}$CH$_3$OH. The physical conditions were derived considering collisional and radiative processes. We found common temperatures for each $A$ and $E$ symmetry of CH$_3$OH and CH$_3$CN; the derived column densities indicate an $A/E$ equilibrated ratio for both tracers. The results reveal that CH$_3$CN and CH$_3$OH trace a hot and cold component with $T_k \sim$ 141 K and $T_k \sim$ 74 K, respectively. In agreement with previous ALMA observations, the models show that the emission region is compact ($\lesssim$ 5.5 arcsec) with gas density $n$(H$_2$)=(0.7-1) $\times$ 10$^7$ cm$^{-3}$. The CH$_3$OH/CH$_3$CN abundance ratio and the evidences for pre-biotic and complex organic molecules suggest a rich and active chemistry towards G331.512-0.103., Comment: 15 pages, 7 figures, 7 tables. Accepted for publication in The Astrophysical Journal

We present a multiwavelength investigation of the HII region G25.8700+0.1350, located in the inner part of the Galaxy. In radio continuum emission, the region is seen as a bright arc-shaped structure. An analysis of the HI line suggests that G25.8700+0.1350 lies at a distance of 6.5 kpc. The ionized gas is bordered by a photodissociation region which is encircled by a molecular structure where four molecular clumps are detected. At infrared wavelengths, the region is also very conspicuous. Given the high level of visual absorption in the region, the exciting stars should be searched for in the infrared band. In this context, we found in the literature one Wolf-Rayet and one red supergiant which, together with 37 2MASS sources candidates to be O-type stars, could be related to the origin of G25.8700+0.1350. Finally, as expanding HII regions are hypothesized to trigger star formation, we used different infrared point source catalogues to search for young stellar object candidates (cYSOs). A total of 45 cYSOs were identified projected onto the molecular clouds., 15 pages, 12 figures, 6 tables. Accepted for publication in MNRAS

Aims. We perform a multiwavelength analysis of the bubble Hii region Sh2-39 (N5) and its environs with the aim of studying the physical properties of Galactic IR bubbles and exploring their impact in triggering massive star formation. Methods. To analyze the molecular gas, we used CO(3-2) and HCO+(4-3) line data obtained with the on-the-fly technique from the ASTE telescope. To study the distribution and physical characteristics of the dust, we made use of archival data from ATLASGAL, Herschel, and MSX, while the ionized gas was studied making use of an NVSS image. We used public WISE, Spitzer, and MSX point source catalogs to search for infrared candidate young stellar objects (YSOs) in the region. To investigate the stellar cluster [BDS2003]6 we used IR spectroscopic data obtained with the ARCoIRIS spectrograph, mounted on Blanco 4 m Telescope at CTIO, and new available IR Ks band observations from the VVVeXtended ESO Public Survey (VVVX). Results. The new ASTE observations allowed the molecular gas component in the velocity range from 30 km s-1 to 46 km s-1, associated with Sh2-39, to be studied in detail. The morphology of the molecular gas suggests that the ionized gas is expanding against its parental cloud. We identified four molecular clumps, which were likely formed by the expansion of the ionization front, and determined some of their physical and dynamical properties. Clumps with HCO+ and 870 μm counterparts show evidence of gravitational collapse. We identified several candidate YSOs across the molecular component. Their spatial distribution and the fragmentation time derived for the collected layers of the molecular gas suggest that massive star formation might have been triggered by the expansion of the nebula via the collect and collapse mechanism. The spectroscopical distance obtained for the stellar cluster [BDS2003]6, placed over one of the collapsing clumps in the border of the Hii region, reveals that this cluster is physically associated with the nebula and gives more support to the triggered massive star formation scenario. A radio continuum data analysis indicates that the nebula is older and expands at lower velocity than typical IR Galactic bubbles., Facultad de Ciencias Astronómicas y Geofísicas, Instituto Argentino de Radioastronomía

Aims. We present a multiwavelength analysis of the infrared dust bubble S 24 and the extended IR sources G341.220-0.213 and G341.217-0.237 located in its environs. We aim to investigate the characteristics of the molecular gas and the interstellar dust linked to them and analyze the evolutionary state of the young stellar objects identified there and the relation of the bubble to S 24 and the IR sources. Methods. Using the APEX telescope, we mapped the molecular emission in the CO(2-1), 13CO(2-1), C18O(2-1), and 13CO(3-2) lines in a region of about 5′ × 5′ in size around the bubble. The cold dust distribution was analyzed using submillimeter continuum images from ATLASGAL and Herschel. Complementary IR and radio data at different wavelengths were used to complete the study of the interstellar medium in the region. Results. The molecular gas distribution shows that gas linked to the S 24 bubble and to G341.220-0.213 and G341.217-0.237 has velocities of between -48.0 km s-1 and -40.0 km s-1, compatible with the kinematical distance of 3.7 kpc that is generally adopted for the region. The gas distribution reveals a shell-like molecular structure of ∼0.8 pc in radius bordering the S 24 bubble. A cold dust counterpart of the shell is detected in the LABOCA and Herschel-SPIRE images. The weak extended emission at 24 μm from warm dust and radio continuum emission projected inside the bubble indicates exciting sources and that the bubble is a compact Hii region. Part of the molecular gas bordering the S 24 Hii region coincides with the extended infrared dust cloud SDC341.194-0.221. A molecular and cold dust clump is present at the interface between the S 24 Hii region and G341.217-0.237, shaping the eastern border of the IR bubble. The arc-like molecular structure encircling the northern and eastern sections of the IR source G341.220-0.213 indicates that the source is interacting with the molecular gas. The analysis of the available IR point source catalogs reveals some young stellar object candidates linked to the IR-extended sources, thus confirming their nature as active star-forming regions. Gas and dust masses were estimated for the different features. The total gas mass in the region and the H2 ambient density amount to 10 300 M⊙ and 5900 cm-3, indicating that G341.220-0.213, G341.217-0.237, and the S 24 Hii region are evolving in a high-densit © ESO, 2015., Facultad de Ciencias Astronómicas y Geofísicas

We investigate the distribution of the gas (ionized, neutral atomic and molecular), and interstellar dust in the complex star forming region NGC6357 with the goal of studying the interplay between the massive stars in the open cluster Pis24 and the surrounding interstellar matter. Our study of the distribution of the ionized gas is based on narrow-band Hhalfa, [SII], and [OIII] images obtained with the Curtis-Schmidt Camera at CTIO, Chile, and on radio continuum observations at 1465 MHz taken with the VLA with a synthesized beam of 40 arcsec. The distribution of the molecular gas is analyzed using 12CO(1-0) data obtained with the Nanten radiotelescope, Chile (angular resolution = 2.7 arcmin). The interstellar dust distribution was studied using mid-infrared data from the GLIMPSE survey and far-infrared observations from IRAS. NGC6357 consists of a large ionized shell and a number of smaller optical nebulosities. The optical, radio continuum, and near- and mid-IR images delineate the distributions of the ionized gas and interstellar dust in the HII regions and in previously unknown wind blown bubbles linked to the massive stars in Pis24 revealing surrounding photodissociation regions. The CO line observations allowed us to identify the molecular counterparts of the ionized structures in the complex and to confirm the presence of photodissociation regions. The action of the WR star HD157504 on the surrounding gas was also investigated. The molecular mass in the complex is estimated to be (4+/-2)X10^5 Mo. Mean electron densities derived from the radio data suggest electron densities > 200 cm^-3, indicating that NGC6357 is a complex formed in a region of high ambient density. The known massive stars in Pis24 and a number of newly inferred massive stars are mainly responsible for the excitation and photodissociation of the parental molecular cloud.

The Galactic object MWC 137 has been suggested to belong to the group of B[e] supergiants. However, with its large-scale optical bipolar ring nebula and high-velocity jet and knots, it is a rather atypical representative of this class. We performed multiwavelength observations spreading from the optical to the radio regimes. Based on optical imaging and long-slit spectroscopic data, we found that the northern parts of the large-scale nebula are predominantly blueshifted, while the southern regions appear mostly redshifted. We developed a geometrical model consisting of two double cones. Although various observational features can be approximated with such a scenario, the observed velocity pattern is more complex. Using near-infrared integral-field unit spectroscopy, we studied the hot molecular gas in the vicinity of the star. The emission from the hot CO gas arises in a small-scale disk revolving around the star on Keplerian orbits. Although the disk itself cannot be spatially resolved, its emission is reflected by the dust arranged in arc-like structures and the clumps surrounding MWC 137 on small scales. In the radio regime, we mapped the cold molecular gas in the outskirts of the optical nebula. We found that large amounts of cool molecular gas and warm dust embrace the optical nebula in the east, south, and west. No cold gas or dust was detected in the north and northwestern regions. Despite the new insights into the nebula kinematics gained from our studies, the real formation scenario of the large-scale nebula remains an open issue., Facultad de Ciencias Astronómicas y Geofísicas, Instituto de Astrofísica de La Plata, Instituto Argentino de Radioastronomía

Aims. We present here a follow-up study of the molecular gas and dust in the environs of the star forming region NGC 3503. This study aims at dealing with the interaction of the HII region NGC 3503 with its parental molecular cloud, and also with the star formation in the region, that was possibly triggered by the expansion of the ionization front against the parental cloud. Methods. To analyze the molecular gas we use CO(J = 2 → 1), 13CO(J = 2 → 1), C18O(J = 2 → 1), and HCN(J = 3 → 2) line data obtained with the on-the-fly technique from the APEX telescope. To study the distribution of the dust, we make use of unpublished images at 870 μm from the ATLASGAL survey and IRAC-GLIMPSE archival images. We use public 2MASS and WISE data to search for infrared candidate young stellar objects (YSOs) in the region. Results. The new APEX observations allowed the substructure of the molecular gas in the velocity range from ~-28 km s-1 to -23 km s-1 to be imaged in detail. The morphology of the molecular gas close to the nebula, the location of the PDR, and the shape of radio continuum emission suggest that the ionized gas is expanding against its parental cloud, and confirm the champagne flow scenario. We have identified several molecular clumps and determined some of their physical and dynamical properties such as density, excitation temperature, mass, and line width. Clumps adjacent to the ionization front are expected to be affected by the HII region, unlike those that are distant from it. We have compared the physical properties of the two kinds of clumps to investigate how the molecular gas has been affected by the HII region. Clumps adjacent to the ionization fronts of NGC 3503 and/or the bright rimmed cloud SFO 62 have been heated and compressed by the ionized gas, but their line width is not different from those that are too distant from the ionization fronts. We identified several candidate YSOs in the region. Their spatial distribution suggests that stellar formation might have been boosted by the expansion of the nebula. We discard the collect-and-collapse scenario and propose alternative mechanisms such as radiatively driven implosion on pre-existing molecular clumps or small-scale Jeans gravitational instabilities., Facultad de Ciencias Astronómicas y Geofísicas, Instituto Argentino de Radioastronomía

Aims. With the aim of investigating the presence of molecular and dust clumps linked to two star forming regions identified in the expanding molecular envelope of the stellar wind bubble RCW 78, we analyzed the distribution of the molecular gas and cold dust. Methods. To accomplish this study we performed dust continuum observations at 870 μm and 13CO(2-1) line observations with the Atacama Pathfinder EXperiment (APEX) telescope, using the Large Apex BOlometer CAmera (LABOCA) and SHeFI-1 instruments, respectively, and analyzed Herschel images at 70, 160, 250, 350, and 500 μm. Results. These observations allowed us to identify cold dust clumps linked to region B (that we have named the southern clump) and region C (clumps 1 and 2), and an elongated filament. Molecular gas was clearly detected linked to the southern clump and the filament. The velocity of the molecular gas is compatible with the location of the dense gas in the expanding envelope of RCW 78. We estimate dust temperatures and total masses for the dust condensations from the emissions at different wavelengths in the far-IR and from the molecular line using local thermodynamic equilibrium and the virial theorem. Masses obtained through different methods agree within a factor of 2-6. Color-color diagrams and spectral energy distribution analysis of young stellar objects (YSOs) confirmed the presence of intermediate and low-mass YSOs in the dust regions, indicating that moderate star formation is present. In particular, a cluster of IR sources was identified inside the southern clump. The IRAC image at 8 μm revealed the existence of an infrared dust bubble of 16′′ in radius probably linked to the O-type star HD 117797 located at 4 kpc. The distribution of the near-and mid-IR emission indicate that warm dust is associated with the bubble., Facultad de Ciencias Astronómicas y Geofísicas, Instituto Argentino de Radioastronomía, Instituto de Astrofísica de La Plata

Aims. We analyze the carbon monoxide emission around the star WR 16 aiming to study the physical characteristics of the molecular gas linked to the star and to achieve a better understanding of the interaction between massive stars with their surroundings. Methods. We study the molecular gas in a region in size using CO J = 1 → 0 and 13CO J = 1 → 0 line data obtained with the 4-m NANTEN telescope. Radio continuum archival data at 4.85 GHz, obtained from the Parkes-MIT-NRAO Southern Radio Survey, are also analyzed to account for the ionized gas. Available IRAS (HIRES) 60 μm and 100 μm images are used to study the characteristics of the dust around the star. Results. Our new CO and 13CO data allow the low/intermediate density molecular gas surrounding the WR nebula to be completely mapped. We report two molecular features at-5 km s-1 and-8.5 km s-1 (components 1 and 2, respectively) having a good morphological resemblance with the Hα emission of the ring nebula. Component 2 seems to be associated with the external ring, while component 1 is placed at the interface between component 2 and the Hα emission. We also report a third molecular feature ∼10′ in size (component 3) at a velocity of-9.5 km s-1 having a good morphological correspondence with the inner optical and IR emission, although high resolution observations are recommended to confirm its existence. The stratified morphology and kinematics of the molecular gas could be associated to shock fronts and high mass-loss events related to different evolutive phases of the WR star, which have acted upon the surrounding circumstellar molecular gas. An analysis of the mass of component 1 suggests that this feature is composed of swept-up interstellar gas and is probably enriched by molecular ejecta. The direction of the proper motion of WR 16 suggests that the morphology observed at infrared, optical, radio continuum, and probably molecular emission of the inner ring nebula is induced by the stellar motion., Facultad de Ciencias Astronómicas y Geofísicas

Aims. We present an analysis of the region IRAS 08589-4714 with the aim of characterizing the molecular environment. Methods. We observed the 12CO(3-2), 13CO(3-2), C18O(3-2), HCO+(3-2), and HCN(3-2) molecular lines in a region of 150″ × 150″, centered on the IRAS source, to analyze the distribution and characteristics of the molecular gas linked to the IRAS source. Results. The molecular gas distribution reveals a molecular clump that is coincident with IRAS 08589-4714 and with a dust clump detected at 1.2 mm. The molecular clump is 0.45 pc in radius and its mass and H2 volume density are 310 M⊙ and 1.2 × 104 cm-3, respectively. Two overdensities were identified within the clump in HCN(3-2) and HCO+(3-2) lines. A comparison of the LTE and virial masses suggests that the clump is collapsing in regions that harbor young stellar objects. An analysis of the molecular lines suggests that they are driving molecular outflows., Facultad de Ciencias Astronómicas y Geofísicas, Instituto Argentino de Radioastronomía

Aims. This work aims at investigating the characteristics of the molecular gas associated with the nebula G18.8+1.8, which is linked to the Wolf-Rayet star HD 168206 (WR 113), and its relation to other components of its local interstellar medium. Methods. We carried out molecular observations of the 12CO(J = 1-0) and (J = 2-1) lines with an angular resolution of 44′′ and 22′′ using the SEST telescope. Complementary NANTEN data of the 12CO(1-0) line were also used. The dust emission was analyzed using Spitzer-IRAC images at 8.0 μm, and WISE data at 3.4 μm, 4.6 μm, and 12.0 μm. Results. The SEST data allowed us to identify a molecular component (Cloud 3) that has velocities in the interval from ~+30 to +36 km s -1 and is most probably linked to the nebula. Morphological and kinematical properties suggest that Cloud 3 consists of a wind-blown molecular half-shell, which expands around WR 113. The ratio R2-1/1-0 and excitation temperatures indicate that the molecular gas is being irradiated by strong UV radiation. The location of the inner optical ring in the outer edge of Cloud 3 suggests that the stars SerOB2-1,-2,-3,-63, and-64 are responsables for the ionization of Cloud 3 and the inner ring nebula. A comparison between the spatial distribution of the molecular gas and the PAH emission at 8 μm indicates the existence of a photodissociation region between the ionized and the molecular gas. A search for candidate young stellar objects (YSOs) in the region around G18.8+1.8 based on available 2MASS, MSX, IRAS, and Spitzer-IRAC catalogs resulted in the detection of about sixty sources, some of them projected onto Cloud 3. Two small spots of clustered candidate YSOs are projected near the outer border of Cloud 3, although a triggered stellar formation scenario is doubtful., Facultad de Ciencias Astronómicas y Geofísicas, Instituto Argentino de Radioastronomía

Context. We present a complete study of the molecular and ionized gas in the environs of the nebula RCW 78 around WR 55. Aims. We investigate the spatial distribution, physical characteristics, and kinematical properties of the molecular gas linked to the galactic nebula RCW 78 to obtain a clearer understanding of its interaction with both the star and the ionized gas. Methods. Our study is based on 12CO(1-0) fully sampled observations of a region of ∼0°.45 in size around the star WR 55 and the nebula RCW 78 obtained with the 4-m NANTEN telescope, radio continuum archival data at 1.4 and 4.85 GHz, obtained from the SGPS and PMNRAO Southern Radio Survey, respectively, and available infrared MIPSGAL images at 24 μm. Results. A molecular gas component in the velocity range from ∼-58 km s-1 to-45 km s-1, which is compatible with the velocity of the ionized gas, was found to be associated with the optical nebula. Adopting a distance of ∼5 kpc, the mass of this molecular component is about 3.4 × 104 M⊙ . Our analysis of the molecular data reveals a velocity gradient that is consistent with that found for the Hα line. New radio-continuum flux-density determinations confirm the thermal nature of RCW 78. This indicates that the ionized gas in RCW 78 arises from the photoionization of the molecular gas component in the velocity range from-58 km s-1 to-45 km s-1. A molecular concentration at a velocity of-56.1 km s-1 (identified as C1) is likely associated with the star HD 117797 and with an ensemble of candidate YSOs, lying at a distance of 3.9 kpc, while the rest of the molecular gas at velocities between-56 km s-1 and-46 km s-1 constitute an incomplete ring-like structure expanding around WR 55 at a velocity of about ∼5 km s-1. Mechanical energy and time requirements indicate that WR 55 is very capable of sustaining the expansion of the nebula., Facultad de Ciencias Astronómicas y Geofísicas, Instituto Argentino de Radioastronomía

Aims. We present a study of the molecular gas and interstellar dust distribution in the environs of the Hiiπ region NGC 3503 associated with the open cluster Pis 17 with the aim of investigating the spatial distribution of the molecular gas linked to the nebula and achieving a better understanding of the interaction of the nebula and Pis 17 with their molecular environment. Methods. We based our study on 12CO(1-0) observations of a region of ∼0°6 in size obtained with the 4-m NANTEN telescope, unpublished radio continuum data at 4800 and 8640 MHz obtained with the ATCA telescope, radio continuum data at 843 MHz obtained from SUMSS, and available IRAS, MSX, IRAC-GLIMPSE, and MIPSGAL images. Results. We found a molecular cloud (Component 1) having a mean velocity of -24.7 km s -1 ,compatible with the velocity of the ionized gas, which is associated with the nebula and its surroundings. Adopting a distance of 2.9 ± 0.4 kpc, the total molecular mass yields (7.6 ± 2.1) × 10 3M⊙ and density yields 400 ± 240 cm -3. The radio continuum data confirm the existence of an electron density gradient in NGC 3503. The IR emission shows a PDR bordering the higher density regions of the nebula. The spatial distribution of the CO emission shows that the nebula coincides with a molecular clump, and the strongest CO emission peak is located close to the higher electron density region. The more negative velocities of the molecular gas (about -27 km s -1), are coincident with NGC 3503. Candidate young stellar objects (YSOs) were detected toward the Hii region, suggesting that embedded star formation may be occurring in the neighborhood of the nebula. The clear electron density gradient, along with the spatial distribution of the molecular gas and PAHs in the region indicates that NGC 3503 is a blister-type Hii region that has probably undergone a champagne phase., Facultad de Ciencias Astronómicas y Geofísicas

We analyze the various interstellar components of the HII region Sh2-132. The main stellar source is the double binary system that includes the Wolf-Rayet star WR153ab. We use radio continuum images at 408 and 1420 MHz, and HI 21cm line data taken from the Canadian Galactic Plane Survey, molecular observations of the 12CO(1-0) line at 115 GHz from the Five College Radio Astronomy Observatory, and available mid and far IR observations obtained with the MSX and IRAS satellites, respectively. Sh2-132 is composed of two shells showing radio continuum counterparts at both frequencies. The emission is thermal in nature. The estimated rms electron density and ionized mass of the nebula are n_e = 20 cm^{-3} and M_HII = 1500 Mo. The distribution of the CO emission shows molecular gas bordering the ionized nebula and interacting with it. The velocities of the molecular gas is in the range --38 to --53 km/s, similar to the velocity of the ionized gas. The emission at 8.3 mic. reveals a ring like feature of about 15' that encircles the bright optical regions. This emission is due to the PAHs and marks the location of photodissociation regions. The gas distribution in the environs of Sh2-132 can be explained in a scenario where the massive stars in the region photodissociated, ionized, and swept-up the dense molecular material from the parental cloud through their strong stellar winds and intense UV photon flux.

Aims. We analyse the distribution of the molecular gas towards the region containing the open cluster Havlen-Moffat 1 (HM 1) the Wolf-Rayet stars WR 87, WR 89, and WR 91, and the star forming regions RCW 121 and RCW 122, with the aim of looking for a possible physical relationship among these objects. Methods. We used the carbon monoxide observations carried out at λ ∼ 2.6 mm with the 4 m NANTEN radiotelescope; new flux density determinations derived from already existing radio continuum surveys at 2.417, 5, 8.35, and 14.35 GHz; continuum flux density determinations available in the literature; and the Midcourse Space Experiment (MSX) and the Improved Reprocessing of the IRAS Survey (IRIS) databases. Results. Adopting a distance of 5 kpc for RCW 121 and RCW 122, we found a giant molecular cloud (GMC) with a linear extent of ∼100 × 20 pc to be associated with galactic star-forming regions. The total mass of this GMC is of the order of 1.2 × 10⁶ solar masses and its mean radial velocity is about –15 km s⁻¹. Within the GMC there are individual molecular gas concentrations, having total molecular masses in the range from 4.6 × 10⁴ M⊙ (RCW 122 C) to 2.2 × 10⁵ M⊙ (RCW 122). The CO profiles observed toward the peak of the molecular concentrations are broad, with typical full-width half-maximum around 6 to 7 km s⁻¹, and show line asymmetries and/or double-peaked shape that change with the observed position within a given CO concentration. An analysis of the MSX and IRAS databases show that each CO concentration has a strong IR counterpart. The dust temperature of these concentrations range from 46 K (RCW 121) to 76 K (RCW 122 C). Their infrared luminosity are a few times 10⁵ L⊙. The new radio continuum flux density determinations are in good agreement with previous determinations at other frequencies, and confirm the thermal nature of RCW 121 and RCW 122. Based on the newly-determined 5 GHz flux density, we found that to power these Hii regions, each of them must harbour a sizable number of O type stars. Under the assumption that all the ionizing stars have a O7 V spectral type, at least ∼8 and ∼4 of these stars would be needed to ionize RCW 122 and RCW 121, respectively., Facultad de Ciencias Astronómicas y Geofísicas, Instituto Argentino de Radioastronomía

To investigate the interaction of the massive stars with the gas and dust in the active star forming region NGC6357, located in the Sagittarius spiral arm at a distance of 1.7-2.6 kpc (Massey et al. 2001), we analyzed the distribution of the neutral and ionized gas, and that of the dust, based on Hα, [Oiii] and [Sii] images obtained with the CurtisSchmidt telescope at CTIO, radio continuum observations at 1.465 MHz obtained with the Very Large Array (NRAO) in the DnC configuration (synthesized beam = 38”), Hi data from the Parkes survey (angular resolution = 15’), CO(1-0) observations obtained with the Nanten radiotelescope at Las Campanas Observatory (angular resolution = 2.7’), and IR images in the four MSX bands (angular resolution = 18.3”). NGC 6357 consists of a low excitation ionized envelope, 50’ in diameter, Hii regions in different evolutionary stages (Felli et al. 1990), molecular clouds, OB stars (most of them belonging to the open cluster Pismis 24), and IR sources (Persi et al. 1986). The [Sii]/Hα and [Oiii]/Hα line ratios confirm the low excitation of the ionized envelope. Although the Hi emission distribution is dominated by absorption due to radio continuum sources, the optical filaments to the E and W are seen surrounded by neutral gas with velocities in the range –12 to +2 km s−1. The CO emission distribution shows molecular gas associated with the region with velocities in the range –7 to +1 km s−1. A detailed analysis of the region reveals interstellar bubbles and photodissociation regions created by the massive stars in Pi 24 and by undisclosed ionizing sources.