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We present the results of multicolor (UBVJHKLM) photometry (2009-2017) and low-resolution spectroscopy (2016-2017) of the semi-regular variable V1427 Aql=HD 179821, a yellow supergiant with gas-dust envelope. The star displays low-amplitude ({\Delta}V, Comment: 30 pages, 12 figures, Accepted for publication in Astronomy Letters

The results of infrared observations of the two Be stars X Per and V725 Tau, which are the optical components of X-ray binary systems, obtained in 1994–2016 are presented. The observations cover Be-star phases as well as shell phases. The data analysis shows that the radiation observed from the binaries at 1.25, 3.5, and 5 μm can be explained as the combined radiation from the optical components and variable sources (shells/disks) that emit as blackbodies (BBs). Emission from a source with the color temperature T c ~1000−1500 K was detected for X Per at λ ≥ 3.5 μm. The highest IR-brightness variation amplitudes for X Per were 0.9−1.2 m (JHK magnitudes) and ~1.45 m (LM magnitudes); for V725 Tau, they were 1.1−1.4 m and ~1.7 m (L magnitudes). The parameters of the optical components and interstellar extinction during the Be phases were estimated: the color excesswasE(B−V) = 0.65±0.08 m and 0.77 ± 0.03 m for X Per and V725 Tau, respectively. Light from the variable sources (disks/shells) was distinguished and their color temperatures, radii, and luminosities estimated for different observation epochs in a BB model. The variations of the binaries’ IR brightness and colors are shown to be due to changing parameters of the variable sources. The mean color temperature of the cool source (disk/shell) and the mean radius and mean luminosity of X Per are 9500± 2630 K, (35 ± 10) R⊙, and (9100± 540) L⊙. For V725 Tau, these parameters are 6200 ± 940 K, (27 ± 6) R⊙, and (980 ± 420) L⊙. The 1.25–5 μm radiation from X Per at different epochs can be represented as a sum of contributions from at least three sources: the optical component and two objects emitting as BBs. To reproduce the 1.25–3.5 μm radiation from V725 Tau, two components are sufficient: the optical component and a single variable BB object. For both binary systems, orbital variations of the IR brightness can be noted near the Be-star phase. The amplitudes of the J-band variations of X Per and V725 Tau are about 0.3 m and 0.1 m , respectively.

We present the results of JHKLM-photometry for the symbiotic Mira star candidate V 335 Vul. Based on the average flux data, supplemented by IRAS, MSX, AKARI, and WISE mid-IR observations, we calculated a model of a spherically symmetric dust envelope of the star, made up of amorphous carbon and silicon carbide particles. The optical depth of the envelope in the visible range with a dust temperature at the inner boundary of T1 = 1300 K is τ V = 0.58. For an envelope expansion velocity of 26.5 km s−1, the estimated mass loss rate is equal to 5.7 × 10−7M⊙ yr−1.

The results of JHKLM photometry of two carbon stars are presented: the irregular variable NQ Cas and the Mira star BD Vul. Data on the mean fluxes supplemented with mid-IR observations with the IRAS, AKARI, andWISE satellites are used to compute spherically symmetrical model dust envelopes for the stars, consisting of particles of amorphous carbon and silicon carbide. The optical depth in the visible for the comparatively cool dust envelope of BD Vul, with a dust temperature at its inner boundary T1 = 610 K, is fairly low: τV = 0.13. The dust envelope of NQ Cas is appreciably hotter (T1 = 1550 K), and has τV = 0.32. The estimated mass-loss rates are 1.5 × 10−7M⊙/yr for NQ Cas and 5.9 × 10−7M⊙/yr for BD Vul.

We present the results of our long-term UBV JHKLM photometry and spectroscopic monitoring of the symbiotic nova V1016 Cyg. After its outburst in 1964, the star showed fading in the U, B, V bands at a rate of about 0.03 mag per year. The behavior of the B − V and U − B color indices reflects variations of the emission lines, fading of the erupted component, weakening and reddening of the cool giant. Also, monotonic color and brightness variations in the infrared (IR) were observed at a scale of several thousand days. After 2004, the yearly mean IR brightness showed a decline and IR colors, reddening, due to the increase of the optical depth of the dust. The parameters of the cool star and of the dust envelope were estimated. The pulsation period of the Mira-type variable was refined, P = 465±5 days. The Mira’s photospheric temperature varied from 2100 to 2700 K in the pulsation cycle. The mass of the dust shell has grown twice during the recent decade, at a dust penetration rate of ∆M dust ~ 10−7 M ⊙/yr. Our spectroscopic monitoring of V1016 Cyg over 1995−2013 showed variations in the emission line strengths. The absolute fluxes of most lines decreased after 2000, whereas the relative intensities of [O III], [Ar III], [Fe VII], [Ca VII] lines with respect to Hβ are increasing after the possible minimum that could happen in the 1990s. An essential flux decline (approximately ten-fold between 1995 and 2013) in the Raman scattered O VI line at λ6825 shows the change of conditions in its formation zone, due to absorption of O VI 1032 Å quanta in the new dust shell of the cool component.

As a result of the next cycle of our long-term monitoring, we present our UBV JHKLM photometry for the symbiotic nova V1016 Cyg in 2008–2014. The star continued to systematically fade and redden in UBV: over this period, the brightness declined by 0ṃ1 in V and by 0ṃ2 in B and U, the B–V color index increased by 0ṃ1, and U–B barely changed. On the color–color (U–B, B–V) diagram, the star moved approximately horizontally rightward with a slight bluing in U–B starting from 2000. Our JHKLM photometry has shown a decline in the mean infrared (IR) brightness and a rise in the mean IR color indices after 2004 due to an increase in the optical depth of the dust envelope. The brightness decline and reddening of the Mira in the near infrared reached their extreme values over the entire period of the system’s observations by the end of 2014. The pulsation period of the Mira is determined with confidence: P = 465 ± 5 days. The distance to the Mira, D = 2.92 ± 0.16 kpc, and its parameters, the radius R * = (470 ± 50) R ⊙ and luminosity L * = (9200 ± 1900) L ⊙, have been estimated from the observations of V1016 Cyg at its maximum J brightness and at its minimum J–H color index. The temperature of the star during its pulsations varied within the range T * = 2100–2700 K.We have estimated the parameters of the dust envelope near its maximum (in 2004) and minimum (in 2012–2014) IR brightness. The mass of the dust envelope almost doubled in ten years, with the rate of dust supply being ΔM d ∼ 10−7 M ⊙ yr−1. Using a low-resolution spectrograph, we performed absolute spectrophotometry for V1016 Cyg in 1995–2013 in the range λ4340–7130 A. We have shown that almost all absolute fluxes in lines and in continuum at λ4400 A decrease monotonically after 2000, while the relative intensities of [O III], [Fe VII], and [Ca VII] lines increase after the minimum that probably occurred in the 1990s. The significant (approximately by a factor of 10 from 1995 to 2013) decrease of the flux in the Raman O VI λ6825 line reflects a change of conditions in the formation zone of this line due to the absorption of some O VI λ1032 photons in the newly forming dust envelope of the cool component.

Long-term JHKLM photometric measurements of the oxygen Mira variables RU Her and RS Vir are presented. Variations of the brightnesses and colors of these stars over the observation period are analyzed, and master light curves and color indices of these stars are derived. A linear trend was present in the mean infrared brightness of RS Vir on a time scale of ∼6000 day, possibly related to changes in the dust shell of the Mira. The results of model calculations of spherically symmetric dust shells of stars based on mean-flux data supplemented by observations from the IRAS and AKARI satellites in the intermediate- and far-IR are presented. The visual optical depth of the dust shell of RU Her, which has a temperature at its inner boundary T 1 = 590 K, is quite low: τ V = 0.33. The dust shell of RS Vir is much cooler (T 1 = 410 K), and has τ V = 0.77. The estimated mass-loss rate of RU Her is 6.2 × 10−7 M ⊙/yr, while the mass-loss rate of RS Vir is 7.1 × 10−7 M ⊙/yr.

Long-term (1994-2014) near-infrared observations of P Cyg, k Dra, and BU Tau are analyzed. It is shown that the observed brightness and color variations in P Cyg and k Dra can be explained by variations in the parameters of the stars themselves and their ionized circumstellar shells, whose excitation requires from 5 to 15% of the star's luminosity. The emission from BU Tau in the range 1.25-3.5 μm mimics blackbody radiation, and its variability is a consequence of variations in the star's temperature and, as a result, its radius and luminosity. No excess emission from BU Tau that could be associated with an additional source has been detected. DOI: 10.1134/S1063773715040076

We investigate the correlation between infrared (JHKL) and optical (B) fluxes of the variable nucleus of the Seyfert galaxy NGC4151 using partially published data for the last 6 years (2008–2013). We find that the lag of flux in all the infrared bands is the same, 40±6 days, to within the measurement accuracy. Variability in the J and K bands is not quite simultaneous, perhaps due to the differing contributions of the accretion disk in these bands. The lag found for the K band compared with the B band is not significantly different from earlier values obtained for the period 2000–2007. However, finding approximately the same lags in all IR bands for 2008–2013 differs from previous results at earlier epochs when the lag increased with increasing wavelength. Examples of almost the same lag in different IR bands are known for some other active nuclei. In the case of NGC 4151 it appears that the relative lags between the IR bands may be different in different years. The available data, unfortunately, do not allow us to investigate a possible change in the lags during the test interval. We discuss our results in the framework of the standard model where the variable infrared radiation is mainly due to thermal re-emission from the part of the dusty torus closest to the central source. There is also a contribution of some IR emission from the accretion disk, and this contribution increases with decreasing wavelength.

Photometric data in the JHKLM near infrared bands obtained in 1999-2000 are presented for the long-period eclipsing system e Aur. The time of secondary eclipse (when the F21 supergiant eclipses a dust disk surrounding the more massive component of the system) is calculated using the latest orbital elements of the system. A brightness minimum with an amplitude of ~0m.05 is observed in all bands at the phase of the expected secondary eclipse (φ = 0.606). The nearest subsequent time of a secondary eclipse, which will occur in December 2026-February 2027, is calculated. It is shown that during the secondary minimum the B5V star currently proposed as the secondary component cannot be eclipsed. It is proposed that the eclipsed component should be a hot star surrounded by a gas-dust cloud and with luminosity and radius exceeding the typical values for Main sequence stars.

The results of JHKLM photometry for Nova Delphini 2013 obtained in the first sixty days after its outburst are analyzed. Analysis of the energy distribution in a wide spectral range (0.36–5 µm) has shown that the source mimics the emission of normal supergiants of spectral types B5 and A0 for two dates near its optical brightness maximum, August 15.94 UT and August 16.86 UT, respectively. The distance to the nova has been estimated to be D ≈ 3 kpc. For these dates, the following parameters have been estimated: the source’s bolometric fluxes ∼9 × 10−7 and ∼7.2 × 10−7 erg s−1 cm−2, luminosities L ≈ 2.5 × 105 L ⊙ and ≈2 × 105 L ⊙, and radii R ≈ 6.3 × 1012 and ≈1.2 × 1013 cm. The nova’s expansion velocity near its optical brightness maximum was ∼700 km s−1. An infrared (IR) excess associated with the formation of a dust shell is shown to have appeared in the energy distribution one month after the optical brightness maximum. The parameters of the dust component have been estimated for two dates of observations, JD2456557.28 (September 21, 2013) and JD2456577.18 (October 11, 2013). For these dates, the dust shell parameters have been estimated: the color temperatures ≈1500 and ≈1200 K, radii ≈6.5 × 1013 and 1.7 × 1014 cm, luminosities ∼4 × 103 L ⊙ and ∼1.1 × 104 L ⊙, and the dust mass ∼1.6 × 1024 and ∼1025 g. The total mass of the material ejected in twenty days (gas + dust) could reach ∼1.1 × 10−6 M ⊙. The rate of dust supply to the nova shell was ∼8 × 10−8 M ⊙ yr−1. The expansion velocity of the dust shell was about 600 km s−1.

Long-term (1985–2013) JHKLM photometry for FG Sge is analyzed. Parameters of the supergiant and optical properties of the dust in the dust shell (DS) have been refined. Given the optical photometry, the spectral energy distribution of FG Sge at J brightness maxima in the range 1.25–5 µm is consistent with the classification of the supergiant as a K3 star. It is shown that the observed changes in J and H magnitudes in 1993–2013 can be explained by the joint action of two factors: the absorption of emission from the supergiant in the DS with dust grains similar to interstellar ones and the changes in parameters (spectral type and radius) of the supergiant itself. The DS has a clumpy structure, its temperature changed within the range 450–800 K, and its radius changed by a factor of 3. The optical depth of the DS estimated from its emission changed within the range τ em(J) ≈ 0.8–3; its changes on the line of sight were τ ext(J) ≈ 0–5. On average, the rate of dust supply to the DS from 1998 to 2013 was 10−6 M ⊙ yr−1.

We present the results of our infrared J H K L photometry of the Seyfert galaxy NGC 4151 during its active period in 1995–2011. The variable IR source was still in its active state in 2011, though its observed luminosity had almost halved compared to the maximum of 1995–1996. If the “cool” component of the galaxy’s variable source is a dust shell heated with the central “hot” source, its optical depth at 1.25 µm varied from 0.3 to almost 1.0, its temperature from 700 to 950 K, its size from 20 to 40 pc, and its mass from 2 to 40M⊙ during our observations. A component with a period of 317 ± 5 days can be revealed in the flux variations observed in 1994–2011.

We present the results of our $UBV$ and $JHKLM$-photometry for the semiregular pulsating variable V1027~Cyg, a supergiant with an infrared excess, over the period from 1991 to 2015. Our search for a periodicity in the $UBV$ brightness variations has led to several periods from $P=212^{d}$ to $P=320^{d}$ in different time intervals. We have found the period $P=237^{d}$ based on our infrared photometry. The variability amplitude, the light-curve shape, and the magnitude of V1027~Cyg at maximum light change noticeably from cycle to cycle. An ambiguous correlation of the $B-V$ and $U-B$ colors with the brightness has been revealed. The spectral energy distribution for V1027~Cyg from our photometry in the range 0.36 ($U$)-5.0 ($M$) $\mu$m corresponds to spectral types from G8I to K3I at different phases of the pulsation cycle. Low-resolution spectra of V1027 Cyg in the range $\lambda$4400--9200 \AA\ were taken during 16 nights over the period 1995--2015. At the 1995 and 2011 photometric minima the star's spectrum exhibited molecular TiO bands whose intensity corresponded to spectral types M0--M1, while the photometric data point to a considerably earlier spectral type. We hypothesize that the TiO bands are formed in the upper layers of the extended stellar atmosphere. We have measured the equivalent widths of the strongest absorption lines, in particular, the infrared Ca~II triplet in the spectrum of V1027~Cyg. The calcium triplet (Ca T) with $W_{\lambda}(\mathrm{Ca~T})=20.3\pm1.8$ \AA\ as a luminosity indicator for supergiants places V1027 Cyg in the region of the brightest G--K supergiants. V1027 Cyg has been identified with the infrared source IRAS~20004+2955 and is currently believed to be a candidate for post-AGB stars. The evolutionary status of the star and its difference from other post-AGB objects are discussed., Comment: 21 pages, 15 figures, 5 tables, accepted for publication in Pis'ma Astron. Zh. (Astronomy Letters)

We present JHKLM photometry of the carbon stars ST And and T Lyn acquired in 2000–2010. Along with brightness variations due to pulsations, changes on timescales of 2000–3000 days are also observed. Our combined light curves can be satisfactorily represented with light elements derived from visual observations, but the maxima are delayed relative to the calculated times. A color-index analysis demonstrates that the dust shell of ST And is fairly weak, and is manifest only episodically, while the presence of hot dust was always detected for T Lyn. These results confirm models of spherically symmetric stellar dust shells based on mean-flux data, supplemented with observations in the intermediate IR from the IRAS and AKARI satellites. The visual optical depth of the relatively cool dust shell of ST And assuming a dust temperature at the inner edge of T 1 = 510 K is very low: τ V = 0.047. The dust shell of T Lyn is considerably hotter (T 1 = 940 K), with τ V = 0.95. We estimate the mass-loss rate to be 1.8 × 10−7 M ⊙/year for ST And and 3.7 × 10−7 M ⊙/year for T Lyn.

We present the results of our infrared observations of WR 140 (=V1687 Cyg) in 2001–2010. Analysis of the observations has shown that the J brightness at maximum increased near the periastron by about 0 m .3; the M brightness increased by ∼2 m in less than 50 days. The minimum J brightness and the minimum L and M brightnesses were observed 550–600 and 1300–1400 days after the maximum, respectively. The JHKLM brightness minimum was observed in the range of orbital phases 0.7–0.9. The parameters of the primary O5 component of the binary have been estimated to be the following: R(O5) ≈ 24.7R ⊙, L(O5) ≈ 8 × 105 L ⊙, and M bol(O5) ≈ −10 m . At the infrared brightness minimum, T g ∼ 820–880 K, R g ≈ 2.6 × 105 R ⊙, the optical depth of the shell at 3.5 µm is ∼5.3 × 10−6, and its mass is ≈1.4 × 10−8 M ⊙. At the maximum, the corresponding parameters are ∼1300 K, 8.6 × 104 R ⊙, ∼2 × 10−4, and ∼6 × 10−8 M ⊙; the mean rate of dust inflow (condensation) into the dust structure is ∼3.3 × 10−8 M ⊙ yr−1. The mean escape velocity of the shell from the heating source is ∼103 km s−1 and the mean dispersal rate of the shell is ∼1.1 × 10−8 M ⊙ yr−1.

Long-term (1984–2008) JHKLM photometry for 254 objects is presented. The observations were carried out in the standard JHKLM photometric system using an original method and a modern IR photometer designed and built at the Sternberg Astronomical Institute. Our program of studies included searches for and studies of relatively hot circumstellar dust envelopes. The most important results obtained using these observations include the following. We have detected relatively hot dust envelopes in a number of objects for the first time, including the RCB star UV Cas, RX Cas, several classical symbiotic stars, etc. A model has been calculated for the dust envelope of FG Sge, which formed around the star as a result of several successive cycles of dust condensation beginning in Autumn 1992. Several dust-condensation episodes have been traced in the envelopes of symbiotic systems (CH Cyg, V1016 Cyg, HM Sge, etc.), as well as the role of the hot component in the formation of the dust envelopes. We have established from variations of the IR emission that the cool components in the symbiotic novae V1016 Cyg and HM Sge, and possibly CH Cyg, are Miras. The binarity of V1016 Cyg and HM Sge has also been firmly established. The variability of a whole series of object has been studied, including the stellar components of close binary systems and several dozen Mira and semi-regular variables. The ellipsoidality of the components in the RX Cas system (a prototype W Ser star) and the cool component in the symbiotic systems CI Cyg and BF Cyg has been firmly established. We have obtained the first IR light curve for the eclipsing system V444 Cyg (WN5+O6), and determined the wavelength dependence of the obtained parameters of the WN5 star. Analysis of the IR light curves of several novae indicate the condensation of dust envelopes in the transition periods of Cygnus 1992, Aquila 1993, and Aquila 1995. The IR light curve of R CrB has been obtained over a long period and analyzed. IR observations of the nova-like variable V4334 Sgr have been carried out over four years, over which the star passed through four stages during its motion along its post-AGB evolutionary track; the star’s bolometric flux and optical depth of its dust envelope have been estimated, and the structure and mass of the dust layer determined. We have analyzed the IR variability of the symbiotic star V407 Cyg over 14 years, and found its cool component to be a Mira with a period of 745 days. The observed pulsations and trend are associated with the luminosity and temperature variations of the Mira, as well as the optical depth of the dust envelope. The size of the dust grains and mass-loss rate of the Mira have been determined. We have obtained JHKL light curves for the Seyfert galaxy NGC 4151 over 23 years. The IR brightness of the galaxy grew from 1985 through 1996 (by ∼0.9 m at 1.25 µm, ∼1 m at 1.65 µm, ∼1.1 m at 2.2 µm, and ∼1.3 m at 3.5 µm), while the galaxy simultaneously reddened. The “cool” variable source in NGC 4151 was still in the active state in 1998, although its luminosity had decreased by approximately 15%–20%. If the “cool” component of the variable source in this galaxy is a dust envelope heated by the central “hot” source, it should be optically thin to the radiation of this source: its mean optical depth is in the range 0.05–0.15. Emission from dust particles heated to temperatures of 600–800 K was observed in the near IR at a distance of several parsecs from the nucleus during the period of activity in 1995–1998; the inferred mass of emitting dust was 5–20 M ⊙. In 1994–2003, we observed a tendency for NGC 4151 to become bluer at 1.25–1.65 µm while simultaneously reddening at 2.2–3.5 µm. Beginning in Autumn 2000, the galaxy began to emerge from a minimum, which lasted from March 2000 through April 2001 in the IR; a flare of the galactic nucleus was observed and followed in detail in the IR in this same period. We confirm the IR variability of the nucleus of the Seyfert galaxy NGC 1068, which can be located in various stages of activity. The variability of NGC 1068 is associated with a complex source. A periodic component has been detected in the J brightness variations of the oxygen Mira V2108 Oph; we have shown that this star is immersed in a fairly dense dust envelope, and have calculated amodel for this envelope. We have calculated an (axially symmetrical) dust-envelope model for the carbon semi-regular variable RWLMi with a density distribution characteristic for the “superwind” stage. This envelope model is able to reproduce the observed fluxes over the entire observable spectrum, and displays a good agreement with the observational data. The three hot supergiants V482 Cas, QZ Sge, and HD 338926 may be variable in the IR. Long-term photometry of eight planetary nebulae in the near IR (1.25–5 µm) has enabled us to firmly establish the IR brightness and color variability of these nebulae on time scales from several tens of days to six-to-eight years. We have analyzed long-term JK photometry of the X-ray binary Cyg X-1 (V1357 Cyg). Periodicity with a characteristic time scale of ∼11.5 years is visible in the JK brightness variations of Cyg X-1 in 1984–2007, possibly due to periodic variations of the temperature, radius and luminosity of the optical component of the binary with P ∼11.5 yr. Fourteen-year IR light curves of five RV Tau stars (R Sge, RV Tau, AC Her, V Vul, and R Sct) and the yellow supergiant and protoplanetary-nebula candidate V1027 Cyg have been analyzed. A spherically symmetrical dust-envelope model has been calculated for V1027 Cyg.

We present JHKLM photometry obtained in 1984–2009 for the RCB stars UV Cas and SU Tau. No major fadings characteristic of RCB stars were detected during the observations of UV Cas, while two events of this kind occurred for SU Tau. The observed flux and color-index variations can be explained with a changing dust concentration in the line of sight, and possibly variations of the stellar temperature. We use the measured fluxes, supplemented with observations in the intermediate IR, to compute spherically symmetric dust-shell models for the stars. The mass-loss rate is estimated to be 1.7 × 10−6M⊙ yr−1 for UV Cas and 4.1 × 10−6M⊙ yr−1 for SU Tau.

We have analyzed our long-term (1995–2008) JHKLM photometry for three variable RV Tau supergiants. It follows from this analysis that: the amplitude of the JHK brightness variations is approximately the same, 0 m . 9–1 m , for the three stars; a negative linear trend is noticeable in the variations of the mean J brightness for AC Her; and the mean J brightness of R Sct and V Vul remained constant. The observed J brightness fluctuations in the supergiants are shown to be consistent either only with the temperature pulsations (AC Her and V Vul) or with the temperature and radial pulsations (R Sct). We have detected long-term pulsations in the J brightness and J-H color variations of the supergiants with the following characteristic time scales: ∼1500 days (AC Her), ∼3500 days (R Sct), and ∼800 and ∼1500 days (V Vul). Our search for a periodic component in the infrared brightness variations of the three stars has revealed periods that differ from those obtained from optical observations. We show that relatively hot dust shells (T d ∼ 700–800 K) exist around the supergiants under study; the densest and most massive shell was observed for V Vul. The ranges of optical-depth variations for the dust shells were τ(1.25 µm) ≈ 0.04–0.10 (AC Her), ≈0.02–0.12 (R Sct), and ≈0.18–0.32 (V Vul). The spectral types in the infrared varied over narrower ranges than those that followed from optical observations of these stars.

Results of JHKLM photometry for the protoplanetary nebula candidate V1027 Cyg obtained in 1991–2008 are reported. In all bands, the brightness variations did not exceed 0.2m. Estimated linear trends demonstrate no significant changes in the mean brightness and color indices of the object, with the possible exception of the L-M color index, which showed a small decrease. A search for possible periodicities in the brightness variations yielded the most probable period of 237d. A model for a spherically-symmetric dust shell has been calculated based on the photometric results supplemented with data on the mid- and far-infrared fluxes. The estimated mass-loss rate of the star is 1.3 × 10−5M⊙/year.

We present and discuss the results of our long-term JHKLM photometry for two RV Tau stars (R Sge and RV Tau) and the yellow supergiant V1027 Cyg, a candidate for protoplanetary nebulae. The amplitude of the infrared brightness variations in R Sge and RV Tau over fourteen years of observations was 0.m9−1m; the infrared brightness variations in V1027 Cyg over eighteen years did not exceed 0.m25. The infrared brightness and color of R Sge fluctuated about their gradually changing mean values; the infrared brightness variations agree with a period of 70.77 days. The periodic J brightness and J-H color variations in R Sge can be explained by temperature pulsations with ΔT ≤ 200 K and radial pulsations with [ΔR/R] ≤ 0.2. From 1995 to 2008, the mean J brightness of RV Tau increased, while its mean J-H color index decreased; the variations in the mean J brightness can be associated mainly with stellar temperature variations; a periodic component with P = 78.73 days is observed in the infrared brightness and color fluctuations. The variations in the mean J brightness and J-H color index of the supergiant V1027 Cyg over eighteen years of observations did not exceed a few hundredths of a magnitude; both temperature and radial pulsations may be present in the observed J brightness variations. The most probable period of the infrared brightness fluctuations in V1027 Cyg is 237 ± 2 days. The dust shell of R Sge may consist of two layers with grain temperatures of ∼1000 and ∼700 K; the optical depth at 1.25 µm is ∼0.02 and ∼0.24, respectively. The grain temperatures in the circumstellar dust shells of the supergiants RV Tau and V1027 Cyg are ∼600 K (RV Tau) and ∼700 K (V1027 Cyg). Their optical depths at 1.25 µm are ∼0.24 (RV Tau) and ∼0.008 (V1027 Cyg).

The results of JHKLM photometry of the symbiotic star CH Cyg are presented. These demonstrate that, in Autumn 2006, the state of maximum near-IR brightness observed in 2003–2006 was replaced by a sharp brightness decline in all wavebands. One possible explanation is a sharp increase in the density of circumstellar dust envelope. The JHKLM photometry data together with ISO far-IR flux measurements are used to calculate spherically symmetric dust-envelope models for the maximum and minimum brightness states. The optical depth, expansion rate, and mass-loss rate of the envelope are calculated for both states, as well as an upper limit for the mass of the central source. Comparison with earlier models suggests that the rate of growth of the envelope optical depth and the mass-loss rate by the star are accelerating with time.

We discuss the infrared (IR) (1.25–5 µm) photometry of eight planetary nebulae performed in 1999–2006. For all of the nebulae under study, we have firmly established IR brightness and color variations on time scales shorter than one year and up to 6–8 years. The greatest IR brightness variations were observed in IC 2149, IC 4997, and NGC 7662. Their J magnitudes varied within 0 . 2–0 . 25. In the remaining objects, the J magnitude variations did not exceed 0 . 15. All of the planetary nebulae under study exhibited IR color variations. Based on the IR photometry, we have classified the central regions of the planetary nebula NGC 1514 and of the northern part of NGC 7635 seen through a 12″ aperture as a B(3–7) main-sequence star (NGC 1514) and a ∼O9.5 upper-main-sequence star (NGC 7635). The nebulae IC 4997 and NGC 7027 exhibited an excess emission (with respect to the emission from a hot source) at λ > 2.5 µm.

We discuss our JHKLM photometry for 22 hot stars, 11 of which were identified in the General Catalogue of Variable Stars. For all of the observed objects, we have estimated the interstellar reddening, angular diameters, and the volume emission measures of their gaseous shells.

Our 8-year-long JHKLM photometry of the Seyfert galaxy NGC 1068 has confirmed its IR variability. The amplitudes of the brightness variations in the J (1.25 µm) and K (2.2 µm) bands are within 0 . m 15 and 0 . m 3, respectively, and exceed the observational errors by more than a factor of 5. The nucleus of NGC 1068 is a variable source and can be at different phases of activity. The brightness of the galaxy in all bands except J decreased from 1998 until 2004. In this period, there was a tendency for the J brightness to increase. The variable source in NGC 1068 is a complex structured object. At least two sources radiate in the wavelength range 1.25–5 µm: a hot source whose radiation shows up in the range 1.25–1.65 µm and a cold source radiating at long wavelengths (2.2–5 µm). The color temperature of the hot source increased from 2300 K (the beginning of our observations) to ∼2700 K (the end of our observations). In contrast, the temperature of the cold source decreased by several tens of degrees (in the temperature range 800–900 K). The IR brightness and color variations observed in 1998–2004 are attributable to the dispersal of the dust envelope that formed around the galactic nucleus some 30 years ago and reached its maximum density in 1994–1995. Our analysis of the spectral energy distributions for the galaxy has shown that the observed radiation in the range 1.25–5 µm can be represented as the sum of radiations from two blackbody sources. For the first period of our observations (JD 2451400), the temperatures of the hot and cold sources are ∼3100 and 760 K, respectively. For the second period (JD 2453230), they are ∼3200 and 720 K, respectively. The hot source is relatively compact; it is smaller in size than the cold source by several tens of times. The mean sizes of the hot and cold sources are ∼2.35 × 1016 and ∼7.8 × 1017 cm, respectively. The total mean luminosity of the two sources did not change between the beginning and the end of our observations. The optical depth of the dust envelope averaged over the spectrum of the hot source is τ ∼ 1.5. In 2004, the state of the dust envelope almost returned to its 1974 level, i.e., the dust envelope formation and dispersal cycle was ∼11 000 days (∼30 yr).

We present the results of JHKLM photometry of the oxygen Mira variable V2108 Oph acquired in 2000–2004. The period of brightness variations is refined (570 ± 3 days), and light and color curves in the near-IR are presented. The mean fluxes, color temperatures, and sizes for two blackbodies representing the combined radiation of the star and dust shell at minimum and maximum brightness are estimated. Additional IRAS data were used to compute a model with a spherically symmetric dust shell of silicate grains; the best-fit model has a radius for its inner boundary of 2.4 × 1014 cm, a dust temperature at this boundary of 1150 K, an optical depth of the shell at 0.55 µm of 16.8, and implies a distance to the star of 980 pc. We estimate the mass-loss rate for V2108 Oph to be 1.2 × 10−5 M ⊙/yr.

We present the JHKLM photometry for five close (W Ser) binary systems obtained in the period 1996–2004. Positive phase shifts (with respect of the adopted ephemerides) have been found in the orbital infrared light curves for three binaries, RX Cas, KX And, and β Lyr; the rates of increase in their periods are ∼3.5 × 10−4, ∼1.6 × 10−3, and ∼1.4 × 10−4 days yr−1, respectively. We have performed the spectral classification of the components of the binaries under study and estimated their parameters.

We have developed an axisymmetric model for the dust envelope of the carbon star RW LMi with a density distribution typical for the superwind stage using JHKLM photometric data obtained in 1997–2003, supplemented by flux data at optical, mid-IR, and far-IR wavelengths. In contrast to earlier spherically-symmetric models, the model is able to reproduce the observed fluxes in all observed wavelength ranges, and provides a good agreement with the observational data. The estimated mass-loss rate is \(\dot M = 1.2 \times 10^{ - 5} M_ \odot /yr\). The computed brightness distribution of the envelope in the near-IR is in satisfactory agreement with high-resolution observations, while the optical size is considerably larger than is observed.

Broad-band UBVRJHKLM photometry of the classical symbiotic binary system Z And obtained at the time of the light maximum of its small-amplitude brightening at the end of 2002 as well as at four epochs before and after this brightening is analysed. The parameters of the symbiotic nebula were obtained from its spectral energy distribution at the epochs of the quiescent state of the system using the energy distribution of the stellar components derived in a previous investigation. The continuum analysis based on the data during the active phase shows that the energy distribution of the compact secondary was changed very little - it remained a hot object emitting mostly in the UV, as in the quiescent state. On the basis of this result the brightening is supposed to be due to a slow expansion to about two times its quiescent size. The possibility of hydrogen burning at the surface of the secondary during quiescence is discussed.

Our analysis of JHKLM photometric data obtained in 1978–2003 for the CH Cyg system shows that the “local” dust envelope that formed in the system in 1986 and reached its highest column density in 1996 had largely dispersed by mid-2001, so that the observed brightness of the system’s red giant has returned to its pre-1985 level. The giant’s spectral type varied in the range M6.5–M7.5 in 2001–2003. The optical depth of the dust envelope at 1.25 µm was τ(J)≈0.83 near JD 2450090. The increase in the dust envelope’s optical depth was approximately a factor of 2.3 slower than the decrease. The envelope of CH Cyg can be pictured as a “stationary” dust cloud with an optical depth at λ=1.25 µm of ∼0.4 and a dust-grain temperature of ∼750–800 K. There was probably an injection of matter into this cloud toward the end of 1985, initiating the condensation of dust grains. The optical depth began to increase and, by 1991, the dust envelope was transformed from a cloud into a local, almost spherically-symmetric envelope with a grain temperature of 750–800 K. Its optical depth reached its maximum in 1996, after which the local envelope began to disperse, becoming a cloud again by 2001. The detected 4000-day variability of the JHK brightness of CH Cyg is in good agreement with a model with an eclipsing binary consisting of two cool giants with effective temperatures differing by approximately 100 K, a luminosity ratio of L(M7)/L(M6)∼6.8, and a radius ratio of R(M7)/R(M6)∼3.6. The orbital ephemeris is given by JD (Min I)=2444180+4000E.

Optical and infrared photometric observations of the classical symbiotic binary Z And obtained in quiescent and active phases in 1999–2002 are analyzed. RI photometric data from the literature are used to estimate the parameters of the binary system’s components. The data as a whole suggest that the hot compact component expands and the emission measure of the surrounding nebula grows during the flare. Possible interpretations of the flare based on several mechanisms are considered.

We discuss our JHKLM photometry for nine carbon Mira stars, eighteen carbon semiregular variables, and two oxygen Mira stars. For fourteen carbon stars, we present and analyze their infrared light and color curves. For all of the observed objects, we have estimated the optical depths of the circumstellar dust envelopes, the angular diameters of the stars, and their temperatures.

The results of JHKL photometry of a 12″ region in the Seyfert 1s galaxy over almost 16 years are presented. An analysis of the observations shows that the infrared brightness of the galaxy considerably increased from 1985 through 1996 (by a magnitude of about 0.9 at λ=1.25 µm, by a magnitude of about 1 at λ=1.65 µm, by a magnitude of about 1.1 at λ=2.2 µm, and by a magnitude of about 1.33 at λ=3.5µm). The brightening was accompanied by reddening. In 1998, the 'cold' variable source of NGC 4151 was still in an active phase, although its luminosity had decreased by about 15-20%. If the 'cold' variable source of the galaxy corresponds to a dust cloud heated by the central 'hot' source, this component should be optically thin to the radiation of the central source, with its optical depth falling in the interval 0.05–0.15. In 1995–1998, during the active phase of the galactic nucleus, material was heated, so that we observed the near-infrared radiation of dust particles at 600–800 K. The mass of the radiating ...

We use JHKLM photometric data obtained in 1998–2001 to model the dust envelope of the unique object FG Sge, which formed around the star after several consecutive cycles of dust condensation beginning in Autumn 1992. Models with a spherically symmetric, extended envelope consisting of a mixture of spherical particles of amorphous carbon and silicon carbide with an MRN size distribution were fitted to match the mean observed spectral energy distributions of FG Sge during brightness maximum and minimum after 1998 for two values of the luminosity and effective temperature of the central star. The stellar-wind parameters and mass-loss rate have been estimated in each case. The observational data for the brightness maximum and minimum cannot be described by models with a fixed luminosity or fixed distance to the star. This is a consequence of the object’s unusual behavior, with synchronous flux decreases in all the observed bands. The inability of the model to adequately describe the minimum-brightness state is probably associated with the abrupt disruption of the spherical symmetry of the envelope due to the formation of a small, dense dust cloud in the line of sight.

Broad-band UBVJHKLM data have been obtained at the time of the quiescent orbital photometric maximum of the classical symbiotic binary system Z And and at some epochs of its 2000–2002 active phase. The data of the active phase are related to the time of the optical maximum and after it when the star was returning to quiescence. Broad-band quiescent RI photometry from the literature was also used to obtain the parameters of the cool component of this binary. All of these data suggest that the hot compact component has undergone a major expansion and the emission measure of the circumbinary nebula has also increased. Some mechanisms for interpretation of the outburst are reviewed.

We present UBVJHKLM photometric observations of Nova Delphini 2013 that started several hours before maximum light and lasted for 130 nights. Using the obtained data, we derived several photometric parameters of the Nova: the time of maximum light, brightness at maximum, rate of decline, t2 = 11 d. This places Nova Del 2013 among fast novae according to the classification introduced by Payne-Gaposchkin. We estimated the interstellar reddening EB−V = 0.18 using maps of Galactic extinction and the absolute brightness in maximum light via the MMRD relation that allowed us to determine the distance D ≈ 2.7 kpc and height above the Galactic plane z ≈ 440 pc. Low-resolution spectroscopy shows that Nova Del 2013 belongs to the Fe II spectral type of novae. The broad emission feature near 6825 Å observed during 2013 August and September may be the Raman-scattered OVI 1032 Å line.

Our analysis of many years of infrared photometry of the unique object FG Sge indicates that the dust envelope formed around the supergiant in August 1992 is spherically symmetrical and contains compact, dense dust clouds. The emission from the spherically symmetrical dust envelope is consistent with the observed radiation from the star at 3.5–5 µm, and the presence of the dust clouds can explain the radiation observed at 1.25–2.2 µm. The mean integrated flux from the dust envelope in 1992–2001 was ∼(1.0±0.2)×10−8 erg s−1cm−2. The variations of its optical depth in 1992–2001 were within 0.5–1.0. The maximum density of the dust envelope was recorded in the second half of 1993 and corresponded to mean optical depths as high as unity. Several times in the interval from 1992 to 2001, the dusty material of the envelope partially dissipated and was then replenished. For example, the optical depth of the dust cloud at λ=1.25 µm during the last brigthness minimum in the J band was τ1.25≈4.3, which is much higher than the optical depth of the dust envelope of FG Sge. During maxima of the J brightness, the mean spectral energy distribution at 0.36–5 µm can be represented as a combination of radiation from a G0 supergiant that is attenuated by a dust envelope with a mean optical depth of 0.65±0.15 and emission from the spherically symmetrical dust envelope itself, with the temperature of the graphite grains being 750±150 K. At minima of the J brightness, only radiation from the dust envelope is observed at 1.65–5 µm, with the radiation from the supergiant barely detectable at 1.25 µm. As a result, the integrated flux during J minima is almost half that during J maxima. The mean mass of the spherically symmetrical dust envelope of FG Sge in 1992–2001 was (3 ± 1) × 10−7 M ⊙. This envelope’s mass varied by nearly a factor of two during 1992–2001, in the range (2 – 4) × 10−7 M ⊙. In Autumn 1992, the mass-loss rate from the supergiant exceeded 2 × 10−7 M ⊙/yr. The average rate at which matter was injected into the envelope during 1993–2001 was 10−8 M ⊙/yr. The mean rate of dissipation of the dust envelope was about 1 × 10−8 M ⊙/yr. During 1992–2001, the supergiant lost about 8.7 × 10−7 M ⊙. The parameters of the dust envelope were relatively constant from 1999 until the middle of 2001.

The brightness and color variations of the symbiotic star CH Cygni are studied, and its stationary, spherically symmetric, extended dust envelope is modeled based on long-term UBVRJHKLM photometry, the mid-IR spectral energy distribution (7–23 µm), and far-IR fluxes measured by IRAS and ISO. The existence of a hot dust envelope, detected earlier in the near IR, is confirmed; the optical depth of the envelope has probably increased with time. Model fits to the IRAS and ISO data indicate that the V-band optical depth increased from 0.22 to 0.41 due to dust density enhancement during the 14 years between the observations by the two spacecraft. The mass-loss rate, gas-expansion velocity at the outer boundary of the envelope, and upper limit of the mass of the central source of emission are estimated assuming that the stellar wind of the system is driven by the pressure of the red giant's radiation on the dust, with subsequent momentum transfer to the gaseous medium.

Brightness and color variations of V1016 Cyg are studied using many years of UBVRJHKLM photometric observations and information about its spectral energy distribution in the intermediate IR (7.7 to 22.7 µm) obtained with the IRAS and ISO low-resolution spectrometers. Models for its stationary, spherically symmetrical, extended dust envelope are computed for two cases of heating: by the radiation of the cool component only and by the combined radiation from both components. Model fitting of the IRAS and ISO observations shows that the model with a single central source—the Mira star—provides a better fit to the data, indicating that the hot component’s radiation is appreciably reprocessed by the ambient gas medium and has almost no direct influence on the IR spectrum of the symbiotic nova. The mean spectral energy distributions measured by IRAS in 1983 and ISO on October 1, 1996, differ considerably. The observed evolution of the envelope’s spectrum probably reflects an increasing grain concentration and decreasing grain temperature at the inner edge of the envelope, associated with decreased luminosity and increased temperature of the hot component. The total mass-loss rate, gas-expansion velocity at the outer edge of the envelope, and upper limit to the mass of the central radiation source are estimated.

We present and discuss JHKLM photometry for five long-period binaries (VV Cep, ZZ CMi, WY Gem, e Aur, and ζ Aur). The IR radiation from WY Gem may contain a component with a period of ∼430 days, attributable to temperature pulsations of an M supergiant. The 3.5-and 5-μm radiation from the eclipsing binary e Aur outside the eclipse exhibits excess (relative to the light from an F supergiant) fluxes which correspond to the emission from a cool source with a temperature of ∼1000 K. For the eclipsing binary Aur, we present the hitherto unpublished results of our optical and IR photometry during 1982–1985, when a primary eclipse was observed in the system.

We present the IR photometry of the X-ray binary XTE J1118+480 performed during seven nights in April and two nights in May–June 2000. A significant IR excess has been detected in the object, which may be due to the thermal radiation from a dust envelope/cloud. The observed energy distribution in the range 1.25–3.5 μm can be interpreted in terms of the sum of the fluxes from an accretion disk with a temperature of ∼20 000 K and a dust envelope with grains heated to ∼900 K. The distance to the X-ray binary estimated from the total flux from the dust envelope is no less than 0.6–3 kpc. The mean optical depth of the dust envelope for the accretion-disk radiation is about 0.06.

We have studied the brightness and color variations of the symbiotic nova HM Sge based on longterm UBVRJHKLM photometry of the star and data on its energy distribution in the middle infrared (7.7–22.7 µm) obtained with the low-resolution spectrometers of the IRAS satellite and ISO orbital observatory. We have also calculated models for the steady-state, spherically symmetrical, extended dust envelope of the star for two extreme heating cases: heating only by radiation from the cool component of the system and by the combined radiation from both components. Model fitting to the IRAS and ISO data indicates that models with a single, central Mira-type source are more appropriate. This indicates that the radiation of the hot component is largely processed by the surrounding gas, and does not substantially affect the infrared spectrum of the symbiotic nova directly. The mean spectral energy distribution based on 1983 IRAS data differs appreciably from the ISO spectrum obtained on October 1, 1996. The observed evolution of the envelope spectrum probably reflects an increase of the density and decrease of the temperature of the dust grains near the inner boundary of the envelope, related to a decrease of the luminosity and increase of the temperature of the hot component. We estimate the total mass-loss rate, velocity of gas expansion at the outer envelope boundary, and upper limit for the mass of the central source of radiation.

We present the results of long-term (1978–1998) infrared and optical observations of the unique symbiotic system CH Cygni. The system’s IR brightness and color variations are generally consistent with a model in which the source is surrounded by a dust envelope with variable optical depth. There was evidence for a hot source in the CH Cyg system during the entire period from 1978 to 1998, with the exception of several hundred days in 1987–1989. Over the observation period, there was tendency for the system to gradually redden at 0.36–5 µm, accompanied by a brightness decrease at 0.36–2.2µm and a brightness increase at 3.5 and 5 µm. The “activation” of the cool sources in 1986–1989 nearly coincided with the disappearance of radiation from the hot source. The dust envelope of CH Cyg is not spherically symmetrical, and its optical depth along the line of sight is substantially lower than its emission coefficient, the mean values being τex(L)∼0.06 and τem(L)∼0.16. We confirm the presence of a 1800-to 2000-day period in both the optical and IR, both accounting for, and not accounting for, a linear trend. The spectral type of the cool star varied between M5III and M7III. The spectral type was M5III during the phase of maximum activity of the system’s hot source, while the spectral type was M7III when the star’s optical radiation was almost completely absent. The luminosity of the cool giant varied from (6300–9100)L⊙; its radius varied by approximately 30%. The ratio of the luminosities of the dust envelope and the cool giant varied from 0.08 to 0.5; i.e., up to 50% of the cool star’s radiation could be absorbed in the envelope. The temperature of dust particles in the emitting envelope varied from 550 to 750 K; the radius of the envelope varied by more than a factor of 2. The expansion of the emitting dust envelope observed in 1979–1988 accelerated: its initial velocity (in 1979) was ∼8 km/s, while the maximum velocity (in 1987–1989) was ∼180 km/s. Beginning in 1988, the radiation radius of the dust envelope began to decrease, first at ∼45 km/s and then (in 1996–1998) at ∼3 km/s. From 1979 until 1996, the mass of the emitting dust envelope increased by approximately a factor of 27 (the masses in 1979 and 1988 were ∼1.4×10−7M⊙ and ∼3.8×10−6M⊙, respectively), after which (by 1999) it decreased by nearly a factor of 7. The mass-loss rate of the cool star increased in 1979–1989, reaching ∼3.5×10−6 ∼3.5×10−6M⊙/yr in 1988. Subsequently (up to the summer of 1999), the envelope itself began to lose mass at a rate exceeding that of the cool star. The largest input of matter to the envelope occurred after the phase of optical activity in 1978–1985. If the envelope’s gas-to-dust ratio is ∼100, the mass of matter ejected in 1988 was ∼4×10−4M⊙.

We present and discuss IR observations for 35 stars of different variability types averaged over many years. These include about twenty symbiotic stars, four W Ser stars and one Algol, six Miras, etc.

Recent results strongly challenge the canonical picture of massive star winds: various evidence indicates that currently accepted mass-loss rates, Mdot, may need to be revised downwards significantly. This is because the most commonly used mass-loss diagnostics are affected by ``clumping'' (small-scale density inhomogeneities), influencing our interpretation of observed spectra and fluxes. Such downward revisions would have dramatic consequences for the evolution of, and feedback from, massive stars, and thus robust determinations of the clumping properties and mass-loss rates are urgently needed. Here, we present a first attempt to constrain the radial stratification of the so-called clumping factor. To this end, we have analyzed a sample of 19 Galactic O-type supergiants/giants, by combining data for Halpha, IR, mm and radio fluxes, and using appropriate analysis methods. Clumping has been included into our analysis in the ``conventional'' way, by assuming the inter-clump matter to be void. Because (almost) all our diagnostics depends on the square of density, we cannot derive absolute clumping factors, but only factors normalized to a certain minimum. This minimum was usually found to be located in the outermost, radio-emitting region, i.e., the radio mass-loss rates are the lowest ones, compared to Mdot derived from Halpha and the IR. The radio rates agree well with those predicted by theory, but are only upper limits, due to unknown clumping in the outer wind. Our most important result concerns a (physical) difference between denser and thinner winds: for denser winds, the innermost region is more strongly clumped than the outermost one (with a normalized clumping factor of 4.1+/-1.4), whereas thinner winds have similar clumping properties in the inner and outer regions., 40 pages, 17 figures, accepted by A&A

We present the results of the photometric observations, in theUBVRJHKLMNQ system, of CH Cyg, made in the period 1978–1987. They have shown that from 1985 to 1987 dust condensed in its circumstellar envelope have taken place the condensation of the dust matter. In 1987 its mass and temperature were about 3×10−8M⊙ and 800 K, respectively.