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CHEOPS is a space telescope specifically designed to monitor transiting exoplanets orbiting bright stars. In September 2023, CHEOPS completed its nominal mission and remains in excellent operational conditions. The mission has been extended until the end of 2026. Scientific and instrumental data have been collected throughout in-orbit commissioning and nominal operations, enabling a comprehensive analysis of the mission's performance. In this article, we present the results of this analysis with a twofold goal. First, we aim to inform the scientific community about the present status of the mission and what can be expected as the instrument ages. Secondly, we intend for this publication to serve as a legacy document for future missions, providing insights and lessons learned from the successful operation of CHEOPS. To evaluate the instrument performance in flight, we developed a comprehensive monitoring and characterisation programme. It consists of dedicated observations that allow us to characterise the instrument's response. In addition to the standard collection of nominal science and housekeeping data, these observations provide input for detecting, modelling, and correcting instrument systematics, discovering and addressing anomalies, and comparing the instrument's actual performance with expectations. The precision of the CHEOPS measurements has enabled the mission objectives to be met and exceeded. Careful modelling of the instrumental systematics allows the data quality to be significantly improved during the light curve analysis phase, resulting in more precise scientific measurements. CHEOPS is compliant with the driving scientific requirements of the mission. Although visible, the ageing of the instrument has not affected the mission's performance., Comment: Accepted for publication in Astronomy and Astrophysics

We present an analysis of high-dispersion spectroscopic observations of the symbiotic system R Aquarii (R Aqr) obtained with the Manchester Echelle Spectrograph (MES) at the 2.1 m telescope of the San Pedro M\'artir Observatory (Mexico). An interpretation of these data is presented by means of the shape software to disclose the morpho-kinematics of the nebulosities associated with R Aqr. The best model that reproduces narrow-band images and position-velocity diagrams is composed by three structures: an outer (large) hourglass structure surrounding an inner bipolar with a spiral-like filament entwined around the later. Different expansion velocity patterns are predefined for each structure, which predict kinematic ages of $\tau_{1}$=450$\pm$25 yr (outer hourglass), $\tau_{2}$=240$\pm$20 yr (inner bipolar) and $\tau_{3}$=215$\pm$20 yr (spiral-like filament). We suggest that the spiral-like filament is tracing the regions of interaction of the precessing jet with the circumstellar material, which simultaneously carves the inner bipolar structure. If a similar process created the large hourglass structure, it means that the action of the jet ceased for about 230 yr. We discuss the implication for other unresolved symbiotic systems detected in X-rays., Comment: 10 pages, 8 figures. Accepted for publication in MNRAS

We present the analysis of archival Very Large Telescope (VLT) MUSE and multi-epoch Hubble Space Telescope (HST) WFPC2 and WFC3/UVIS narrow-band observations of the remnant associated with the ejecta of the mid-nineteenth century outburst of the recurrent nova T Pyx. These data sets are used to investigate its true 3D physical structure and the nebular expansion patterns along the line of sight and on the plane of the sky. The VLT MUSE emission line maps and 3D visualisations based on position-position-velocity diagrams reveal T Pyx as a bipolar nebula, with a knotty toroidal structure at its waist best seen in H$\beta$ and two open bowl-shaped bipolar lobes (a diabolo) best revealed by the [OIII] emission lines. The comparison of multi-epoch HST WFPC2 and WFC3/UVIS narrow-band images and VLT MUSE emission line maps of T Pyx reveals the angular expansion of the remnant through the proper motion of individual knots and nebular features. The angular expansion is confirmed to be homologous in the period from 1994.2 to 2007.4 before the recent 2011 outburst, but there is suggestive evidence that the inner knots have experienced a higher expansion rate since then., Comment: 18 pages, 15 figures. Accepted for publication in MNRAS

We report the discovery by the TESS mission of a super-Earth on a 4.8-d orbit around an inactive M4.5 dwarf (TOI-1680) validated by ground-based facilities. The host star is located 37.14 pc away, with a radius of 0.2100+/-0.0064 R_sun, mass of 0.1800+/-0.0044 M_sun and an effective temperature of 3211+/-100 K. We validated and characterized the planet using TESS data, ground-based multi-wavelength photometry from TRAPPIST, SPECULOOS, and LCO, as well as high-resolution AO observations from Keck/NIRC2 and Shane. Our analyses have determined the following parameters for the planet: a radius of 1.466+0.063/-0.049 R_earth and an equilibrium temperature of 404+/-14 K, assuming no albedo and perfect heat redistribution. Assuming a mass based on mass-radius relations, this planet is a promising target for atmospheric characterization with the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST)., Comment: Accepted in A&A

We present the discovery and validation of two TESS exoplanets orbiting nearby M dwarfs: TOI-2084b, and TOI-4184b. We characterized the host stars by combining spectra from Shane/Kast and Magellan/FIRE, SED (Spectral Energy Distribution) analysis, and stellar evolutionary models. In addition, we used Gemini-South/Zorro & -North/Alopeke high-resolution imaging, archival science images, and statistical validation packages to support the planetary interpretation. We performed a global analysis of multi-colour photometric data from TESS and ground-based facilities in order to derive the stellar and planetary physical parameters for each system. We find that TOI-2084b and TOI-4184b are sub-Neptune-sized planets with radii of Rp = 2.47 +/- 0.13R_Earth and Rp = 2.43 +/- 0.21R_Earth, respectively. TOI-2084b completes an orbit around its host star every 6.08 days, has an equilibrium temperature of T_eq = 527 +/- 8K and an irradiation of S_p = 12.8 +/- 0.8 S_Earth. Its host star is a dwarf of spectral M2.0 +/- 0.5 at a distance of 114pc with an effective temperature of T_eff = 3550 +/- 50 K, and has a wide, co-moving M8 companion at a projected separation of 1400 au. TOI-4184b orbits around an M5.0 +/- 0.5 type dwarf star (Kmag = 11.87) each 4.9 days, and has an equilibrium temperature of T_eq = 412 +/- 8 K and an irradiation of S_p = 4.8 +/- 0.4 S_Earth. TOI-4184 is a metal poor star ([Fe/H] = -0.27 +/- 0.09 dex) at a distance of 69 pc with an effective temperature of T_eff = 3225 +/- 75 K. Both planets are located at the edge of the sub-Jovian desert in the radius-period plane. The combination of the small size and the large infrared brightness of their host stars make these new planets promising targets for future atmospheric exploration with JWST., Comment: Accepted for publication in A&A

We investigated the origin of the Planetary Nebula (PN) M 1-16 using narrow-band optical imaging, and high- and low-resolution optical spectra to perform a detailed morpho-kinematic and chemical studies. M 1-16 is revealed to be a multipolar PN that predominantly emits in [O III] in the inner part of the nebula and [N II] in the lobes. A novel spectral unsharp masking technique was applied to the position-velocity (PV) maps to reveal a set of multiple structures at the centre of M 1-16 spanning radial velocities from $-$40km$\,$s$^{-1}$ to 20km$\,$s$^{-1}$, with respect to the systemic velocity. The morpho-kinematic model indicates that the deprojected velocity of the lobe outflows are $\geq$100km$\,$s$^{-1}$, and particularly the larger lobes and knots have a deprojected velocity of $\simeq$350km$\,$s$^{-1}$; the inner ellipsoidal component has a deprojected velocity of $\simeq$29km$\,$s$^{-1}$. A kinematical age of $\sim$8700yr has been obtained from the model assuming a homologous velocity expansion law and a distance of 6.2$\pm$1.9kpc. The chemical analysis indicates that M 1-16 is a Type I PN with a central star of PN (CSPN) mass in the range of $\simeq$0.618-0.713M$_\odot$ and an initial mass for the progenitor star between 2.0 and 3.0M$_\odot$ (depending on metallicity). An $T_\mathrm{eff}\simeq$140$\,$000K and log$(L/L_{\odot})$=2.3 was estimated using the 3MdB photoionisation models to reproduce the ionisation stage of the PN. All of these results have led us to suggest that M 1-16 is an evolved PN, contrary to the scenario of proto-PN suggested in previous studies. We propose that the mechanism responsible for the morphology of M 1-16 is related to the binary (or multiple star) evolution scenario., Comment: A&A in press. 11 pages, 9 figures

We present the analysis of archival XMM-Newton and Chandra observations of CH Cyg, one of the most studied symbiotic stars (SySts). The combination of the high-resolution XMM-Newton RGS and Chandra HETG X-ray spectra allowed us to obtain reliable estimates of the chemical abundances and to corroborate the presence of multi-temperature X-ray-emitting gas. Spectral fitting of the medium-resolution XMM-Newton MOS (MOS1+MOS2) spectrum required the use of an additional component not seen in previous studies in order to fit the 2.0-4.0 keV energy range. Detailed spectral modelling of the XMM-Newton MOS data suggests the presence of a reflection component, very similar to that found in active galactic nuclei. The reflection component is very likely produced by an ionised disk (the accretion disk around the white dwarf) and naturally explains the presence of the fluorescent Fe emission line at 6.4 keV while also contributing to the soft and medium energy ranges. The variability of the global X-ray properties of CH Cyg are discussed as well as the variation of the three Fe lines around the 6-7 keV energy range. We conclude that reflection components are needed to model the hard X-ray emission and may be present in most $\beta/\delta$-type SySt., Comment: 12 pages, 7 figures, 5 tables; To appear in MNRAS

Several planetary formation models have been proposed to explain the observed abundance and variety of compositions of super-Earths and mini-Neptunes. In this context, multitransiting systems orbiting low-mass stars whose planets are close to the radius valley are benchmark systems, which help to elucidate which formation model dominates. We report the discovery, validation, and initial characterization of one such system, TOI-2096, composed of a super-Earth and a mini-Neptune hosted by a mid-type M dwarf located 48 pc away. We first characterized the host star by combining different methods. Then, we derived the planetary properties by modeling the photometric data from TESS and ground-based facilities. We used archival data, high-resolution imaging, and statistical validation to support our planetary interpretation. We found that TOI-2096 corresponds to a dwarf star of spectral type M4. It harbors a super-Earth (R$\sim1.2 R_{\oplus}$) and a mini-Neptune (R$\sim1.90 R_{\oplus}$) in likely slightly eccentric orbits with orbital periods of 3.12 d and 6.39 d, respectively. These orbital periods are close to the first-order 2:1 mean-motion resonance (MMR), which may lead to measurable transit timing variations (TTVs). We computed the expected TTVs amplitude for each planet and found that they might be measurable with high-precision photometry delivering mid-transit times with accuracies of $\lesssim$2 min. Moreover, measuring the planetary masses via radial velocities (RVs) is also possible. Lastly, we found that these planets are among the best in their class to conduct atmospheric studies using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). The properties of this system make it a suitable candidate for further studies, particularly for mass determination using RVs and/or TTVs, decreasing the scarcity of systems that can be used to test planetary formation models around low-mass stars., Comment: 25 pages, 21 figures. Aceptted for publication in Astronomy & Astrophysics

We present the analysis of archival XMM-Newton observations of the symbiotic stars HM Sge, NQ Gem, and PU Vul. The EPIC-pn spectra hint at the presence of emission lines, which are further confirmed in the 1st order RGS spectra of the three sources. Spectral modeling of the EPIC-pn data disclose unprecedented characteristics, for instance, the best fit to the EPIC-pn spectrum of the $\beta$-type symbiotic star PU Vul reveals the presence of two plasma components. We report the discovery of an extremely soft spectral component in the EPIC-pn spectrum of the $\beta$-type symbiotic star HM Sge which we suggest is produced by periodic mass ejections such as jets. Consequently, we suggest that a simple $\beta$-type classification no longer applies to HM Sge. Finally, the spectrum of the $\beta/\delta$-type symbiotic star NQ Gem can not be fitted by a two-temperature plasma model as performed by previous authors. The model requires extra components to fit the 1.0-4.0 keV energy range. More sophisticated models to $\beta/\delta$-type symbiotic stars are needed in order to peer into the accretion process from such systems., Comment: 9 pages, 2 Tables, 3 Figures; Accepted to ApJ

One of the main scientific goals of the TESS mission is the discovery of transiting small planets around the closest and brightest stars in the sky. Here, using data from the CARMENES, MAROON-X, and HIRES spectrographs, together with TESS, we report the discovery and mass determination of a planetary system around the M1.5 V star GJ 806 (TOI-4481). GJ 806 is a bright (V=10.8 mag, J=7.3 mag) and nearby (d=12 pc) M dwarf that hosts at least two planets. The innermost planet, GJ 806 b, is transiting and has an ultra-short orbital period of 0.93 d, a radius of 1.331+-0.023 Re, a mass of 1.90+-0.17 Me, a mean density of 4.40+-0.45 g/cm3, and an equilibrium temperature of 940+-10 K. We detect a second, non-transiting, super-Earth planet in the system, GJ 806c, with an orbital period of 6.6 d, a minimum mass of 5.80+-0.30 Me, and an equilibrium temperature of 490+-5 K. The radial velocity data also shows evidence for a third periodicity at 13.6 d, although the current dataset does not provide sufficient evidence to unambiguously distinguish between a third super-Earth mass (Msin(i)=8.50+-0.45 Me) planet or stellar activity. Additionally, we report one transit observation of GJ 806 b taken with CARMENES in search for a possible extended atmosphere of H or He, but we can only place upper limits to its existence. This is not surprising as our evolutionary models support the idea that any possible primordial H/He atmosphere that GJ 806 b might have had, would long have been lost. However, GJ 806b's bulk density makes it likely that the planet hosts some type of volatile atmosphere. In fact, with a transmission spectroscopy metrics (TSM) of 44 and an emission spectroscopy metrics (ESM) of 24, GJ 806 b the third-ranked terrestrial planet around an M dwarf suitable for transmission spectroscopy studies, and the most promising terrestrial planet for emission spectroscopy studies., Comment: Under second review in A&A. This paper is NOT yet accepted, but it is made openly available to the community due to the approaching JWST deadline

Theory predicts that the temperature of the X-ray-emitting gas ($\sim$10$^{6}$ K) detected from planetary nebulae (PNe) is a consequence of mixing or thermal conduction when in contact with the ionized outer rim ($\sim$10$^{4}$ K). Gas at intermediate temperatures ($\sim$10$^{5}$ K) can be used to study the physics of the production of X-ray-emitting gas, via C IV, N V and O VI ions. Here we model the stellar atmosphere of the CSPN of NGC 1501 to demonstrate that even this hot H-deficient [WO4]-type star cannot produce these emission lines by photoionization. We use the detection of the C IV lines to assess the physical properties of the mixing region in this PNe in comparison with its X-ray-emitting gas, rendering NGC 1501 only the second PNe with such characterization. We extend our predictions to the hottest [WO1] and cooler [WC5] spectral types and demonstrate that most energetic photons are absorbed in the dense winds of [WR] CSPN and highly ionized species can be used to study the physics behind the production of hot bubbles in PNe. We found that the UV observations of NGC 2452, NGC 6751 and NGC 6905 are consistent with the presence mixing layers and hot bubbles, providing excellent candidates for future X-ray observations., Comment: To appear in MNRAS; 14 pages, 10 figures, 6 tables

We present Grantecan 10 m telescope (GTC) spectroscopic confirmations of 55 faint Planetary Nebulae (PNe) candidates discovered largely in the INT Photometric H$_\alpha$ Survey of the Northern Galactic Plane (IPHAS) by our pro-am collaboration. We confirm 46 of them as 'True' (T), 4 as 'Likely' (L) and 5 as 'Possible' (P) PNe and including 5 new PNe central star (CSPN) discoveries. This was from observations of 62 new candidates yielding a maximum PN discovery success rate of 89%. The sensitivity and longer wavelength coverage of IPHAS allows PNe to be found in regions of greater extinction and at these lower Galactic latitudes, including PNe in a more advanced evolutionary state and at larger distances compared to previously known Galactic PNe. We use an holistic set of observed characteristics and optical emission-line diagnostics to confirm candidates. Plasma properties have been determined in a self-consistent way using PyNeb. This work is facilitated by the functionality of our powerful, multi-wavelength database 'HASH' (Hong Kong, Australian Astronomical Observatory, Strasbourg Observatory H-alpha Planetary Nebula catalogue) that federates known imaging, spectroscopy and other pertinent data for all Galactic T, L, P PNe and the significant numbers of mimics. Reddenings, corrected radial velocities and PNe electron density and temperature estimates are provided for these new PNe where possible., Comment: Accepted for publication by MNRAS

We present GTC MEGARA high-dispersion integral field spectroscopic observations of the nova remnant QU\,Vul, which provide a comprehensive 3D view of this nova shell. The tomographic analysis of the H$\alpha$ emission reveals a complex physical structure characterized by an inhomogeneous and clumpy distribution of the material within this shell. The overall structure can be described as a prolate ellipsoid with an axial ratio of 1.4$\pm$0.2, a major axis inclination with the line of sight of $12^{\circ}\pm6^{\circ}$, and polar and equatorial expansion velocities $\approx$560 km~s$^{-1}$ and 400$\pm$60 km s$^{-1}$, respectively. The comparison of the expansion velocity on the plane of the sky with the angular expansion implies a distance of 1.43$\pm$0.23 kpc. The ionized mass is found to be $\approx 2\times 10^{-4}$ M$_\odot$, noting that the information on the 3D distribution of material within the nova shell has allowed us to reduce the uncertainty on its filling factor. The nova shell is still in its free expansion phase, which can be expected as the ejecta mass is much larger than the swept-up circumstellar medium mass. The 3D distribution and radial velocity of material within the nova shell provide an interpretation of the so-called "castellated" line profiles observed in early optical spectra of nova shells, which can be attributed to knots and clumps moving radially along different directions., Comment: 10 pages, 6 figures

In the age of JWST, temperate terrestrial exoplanets transiting nearby late-type M dwarfs provide unique opportunities for characterising their atmospheres, as well as searching for biosignature gases. We report here the discovery and validation of two temperate super-Earths transiting LP 890-9 (TOI-4306, SPECULOOS-2), a relatively low-activity nearby (32 pc) M6V star. The inner planet, LP 890-9b, was first detected by TESS (and identified as TOI-4306.01) based on four sectors of data. Intensive photometric monitoring of the system with the SPECULOOS Southern Observatory then led to the discovery of a second outer transiting planet, LP 890-9c (also identified as SPECULOOS-2c), previously undetected by TESS. The orbital period of this second planet was later confirmed by MuSCAT3 follow-up observations. With a mass of 0.118$\pm$0.002 $M_\odot$, a radius of 0.1556$\pm$0.0086 $R_\odot$, and an effective temperature of 2850$\pm$75 K, LP 890-9 is the second-coolest star found to host planets, after TRAPPIST-1. The inner planet has an orbital period of 2.73 d, a radius of $1.320_{-0.027}^{+0.053}$ $R_\oplus$, and receives an incident stellar flux of 4.09$\pm$0.12 $S_\oplus$. The outer planet has a similar size of $1.367_{-0.039}^{+0.055}$ $R_\oplus$ and an orbital period of 8.46 d. With an incident stellar flux of 0.906 $\pm$ 0.026 $S_\oplus$, it is located within the conservative habitable zone, very close to its inner limit. Although the masses of the two planets remain to be measured, we estimated their potential for atmospheric characterisation via transmission spectroscopy using a mass-radius relationship and found that, after the TRAPPIST-1 planets, LP 890-9c is the second-most favourable habitable-zone terrestrial planet known so far. The discovery of this remarkable system offers another rare opportunity to study temperate terrestrial planets around our smallest and coolest neighbours., Comment: 31 pages, 19 figures, 7 tables. Accepted for publication in A&A

We present a comprehensive study of the ionization structure and kinematics of the planetary nebula (PN) NGC40 (a.k.a. the Bow-tie Nebula). A set of narrow-band images obtained with the ALhambra Faint Object Spectrograph and Camera (ALFOSC) at the Nordic Optical Telescope (NOT) are used to study the turbulent distribution of gas in the main cavity, the ionization stratification and the density of this PN. High-resolution Manchester Echelle Spectrograph (MES) observations obtained at 2.1m telescope of the San Pedro M\'{a}rtir (SPM) Observatory are used to unveil in great detail the kinematic signatures of all morphological features in NGC40. The images and spectra suggest that NGC40 had multiple mass ejections in its recent formation history. We found 4 jet-like ejections not aligned with the main axis of NGC40 (PA=20$^{\circ}$), some of them having pierced the main cavity along the SW-NE direction as well as the southern lobe. Using a tailor-made morpho-kinematic model of NGC40 produced with SHAPE we found that the main cavity has a kinematic age of 6,500 yr and the two pairs of lobes expanding towards the N and S directions have an averaged age of 4,100$\pm$550 yr. NGC40 thus adds to the group of PNe with multiple ejections along different axes that challenge the models of PN formation., Comment: 11 pages, 9 figures, 3 tables; Accepted to MNRAS

We present the analysis of Multi-Espectr\'ografo en GTC de Alta Resoluci\'on para Astronom\'ia (MEGARA) high-dispersion integral field spectroscopic observations of the bipolar planetary nebula (PN) M 3-38. These observations unveil the presence of a fast outflow aligned with the symmetry axis of M 3-38 that expands with a velocity up to $\pm$225 km s$^{-1}$. The deprojected space velocity of this feature can be estimated to be $\approx$320$^{+130}_{-60}$ km s$^{-1}$, which together with its highly collimated morphology suggests that it is one of the fastest jet detected in a PN. We have also used Kepler observations of the central star of M 3-38 to unveil variability associated with a dominant period of 17.7 days. We attribute this to the presence of a low-mass star with an orbital separation of $\approx$0.12-0.16 au. The fast and collimated ejection and the close binary system point towards a common envelope formation scenario for M 3-38., Comment: 9 pages, 5 figures, Accepted ApJ Letter

White dwarf (WD) stars are often associated with the central stars of planetary nebulae (CSPNe) on their way to the cooling track. A large number of WD star candidates have been identified thanks to optical large-scale surveys such as Gaia DR2 and EDR3. However, hot-WD/CSPNe stars are quite elusive in optical bands due to their high temperatures and low optical luminosities. The Galaxy Evolution Explorer (GALEX) matched with the INT Galactic Plane Survey (IGAPS) allowed us to identify hot-WD candidates by combining the GALEX far-UV (FUV) and near-UV (NUV) with optical photometric bands (g, r, i and H$\alpha$). After accounting for source confusion and filtering bad photometric data, a total of 236485 sources were found in the GALEX and IGAPS footprint (GaPHAS). A preliminary selection of hot stellar sources was made using the GALEX colour cut on FUV-NUV>-0.53, yielding 74 hot-WD candidates. We analysed their spectral energy distribution (SED) by developing a fitting program for single- and two-body SED using an MCMC algorithm; 41 are probably binary systems (a binary fraction of ~55% was estimated). Additionally, we classified the WD star candidates using different infrared (IR) colours available for our sample obtaining similar results as in the SED analysis for the single and binary systems. This supports the strength of the fitting method and the advantages of the combination of GALEX UV with optical photometry. Ground-based time-series photometry and spectra are required in order to confirm the nature of the WD star candidates., Comment: Accepted in MNRAS. 17 pages and 8 figures

Born-again planetary nebulae (PNe) are extremely rare cases in the evolution of solar-like stars. It is commonly accepted that their central stars (CSPN) experienced a very late thermal pulse (VLTP), ejecting H-deficient material inside the evolved H-rich PN. Given the short duration of this event and the fast subsequent evolution of the CSPN, details of the mass ejection are unknown. We present the first morpho-kinematic model of the H-deficient material surrounding a born-again PN, namely A30. New San Pedro M\'{a}rtir observations with the Manchester Echelle Spectrograph were recently obtained to map the inner region of A30 which are interpreted by means of the software SHAPE in conjunction with HST WFC3 images. The SHAPE morpho-kinematic model that best reproduces the observations is composed by a disrupted disk tilted $37^\circ$ with respect to the line of sight and a pair of orthogonal opposite bipolar ejections. We confirm previous suggestions that the structures closer to the CSPN present the highest expansion velocities, that is, the disrupted disk expands faster than the farther bipolar features. We propose that the current physical structure and abundance discrepancy of the H-deficient clumps around the CSPN of A30 can be explained by a common envelope phase following the VLTP event. Our proposed scenario is also compared with other known born-again PNe (A58, A78, HuBi1 and the Sakurai's Object)., Comment: 9 pages, 6 figures, 1 table; Accepted to MNRAS

We present a 3D mapping of the Wolf-Rayet (WR) nebula M1-67 around WR124. We obtained high-resolution San Pedro M\'{a}rtir (SPM) Manchester Echelle Spectrograph (MES) observations along 17 long-slit positions covering all morphological features in M1-67. We are able to unveil the true morphology of M1-67 and its kinematics by interpreting the SPM MES observations by means of the 3D modelling tool for Astrophysics SHAPE. Our SHAPE model that best reproduces the SPM MES data includes three concentric bipolar structures composed by a hollow ellipsoidal structure and a torus. In addition, the model requires the presence of expanding jets and broken blisters in order to reproduce specific spectral features. Our results are consistent with the idea that M1-67 and its progenitor star WR124 have formed through a common envelope scenario that occurred 11.8$^{+4.6}_{-0.8}$ kyr ago. Our bipolar model strongly questions previous suggestions of the presence of a bow shock structure surrounding M1-67. We interpret that the bright structures detected in the spectra extracted from the central regions are produced by wind compression at the receding region of the innermost structure in M1-67. Furthermore, WR124 is moving through a low-density region above the Galactic plane that has negligibly affected the formation history of M1-67., Comment: 9 pages, 7 figures, 2 tables; Accepted to MNRAS

Context: TOI-2076 is a transiting three-planet system of sub-Neptunes orbiting a bright (G = 8.9 mag), young ($340\pm80$ Myr) K-type star. Although a validated planetary system, the orbits of the two outer planets were unconstrained as only two non-consecutive transits were seen in TESS photometry. This left 11 and 7 possible period aliases for each. Aims: To reveal the true orbits of these two long-period planets, precise photometry targeted on the highest-probability period aliases is required. Long-term monitoring of transits in multi-planet systems can also help constrain planetary masses through TTV measurements. Methods: We used the MonoTools package to determine which aliases to follow, and then performed space-based and ground-based photometric follow-up of TOI-2076 c and d with CHEOPS, SAINT-EX, and LCO telescopes. Results: CHEOPS observations revealed a clear detection for TOI-2076 c at $P=21.01538^{+0.00084}_{-0.00074}$ d, and allowed us to rule out three of the most likely period aliases for TOI-2076 d. Ground-based photometry further enabled us to rule out remaining aliases and confirm the $P=35.12537\pm0.00067$ d alias. These observations also improved the radius precision of all three sub-Neptunes to $2.518\pm0.036$, $3.497\pm0.043$, and $3.232\pm0.063$ $R_\oplus$. Our observations also revealed a clear anti-correlated TTV signal between planets b and c likely caused by their proximity to the 2:1 resonance, while planets c and d appear close to a 5:3 period commensurability, although model degeneracy meant we were unable to retrieve robust TTV masses. Their inflated radii, likely due to extended H-He atmospheres, combined with low insolation makes all three planets excellent candidates for future comparative transmission spectroscopy with JWST., Comment: 18 pages, 7 figure, 8 tables. Accepted for publication in Astronomy & Astrophysics. Photometry available on CDS/Vizier. Python package presented for modelling duotransiting planet candidates available at https://github.com/hposborn/MonoTools. Modelling & figure-creation code available at https://github.com/hposborn/TOI2076

We present long-slit intermediate-dispersion spectroscopic observations and narrow-band direct imaging of four classical nova shells, namely TAur, HRDel, DQHer and QUVul, and the nova-like source CKVul. These are used to construct models of their nebular remnants using the morpho-kinematic modelling tool Shape to reveal their 3D shape. All these nova remnants but CKVul can be described by prolate ellipsoidal shells with different eccentricity degree, from the spherical QUVul to the highly elongated shell with an equatorial component HRDel. On the other hand, CKVul shows a more complex structure, with two pairs of nested bipolar lobes. The spatio-kinematic properties of the ellipsoidal nova shells derived from our models include their true axial ratios. This parameter is expected to correlate with the expansion velocity and decline time C3 (i.e., their speed class) of a nova as the result the interaction of the ejecta with the circumstellar material and rotation speed and magnetic field of the white dwarf. We have compared these three parameters including data available in the literature for another two nova shells, V533 Her and FH Ser. There is an anti-correlation between the expansion velocity and the axial ratio and decline time C3 for nova remnants with ellipsoidal morphology, and a correlation between their axial ratios and decline times C3, confirming theoretical expectations that the fastest expanding novae have the smallest axial ratios. We note that the high expansion velocity of the nova shell HRDel of 615 km/s is inconsistent with its long decline time C3 of 250 days., Comment: 12 pages, 7 figures, 1 Appendix + 1 figure, 3 tables. Accepted for publication in MNRAS

We report the discovery of GJ 3929 b, a hot Earth-sized planet orbiting the nearby M3.5 V dwarf star, GJ 3929 (G 180--18, TOI-2013). Joint modelling of photometric observations from TESS sectors 24 and 25 together with 73 spectroscopic observations from CARMENES and follow-up transit observations from SAINT-EX, LCOGT, and OSN yields a planet radius of $R_b = 1.150 +/- 0.040$ R$_{earth}$, a mass of $M_b = 1.21 +/- 0.42$ M$_{earth}$, and an orbital period of $P_b = 2.6162745 +/- 0.0000030$ d. The resulting density of $\rho_b= 4.4 +/- 1.6$ g/cm$^{-3}$ is compatible with the Earth's mean density of about 5.5 g/cm$^{-3}$. Due to the apparent brightness of the host star (J=8.7 mag) and its small size, GJ 3929 b is a promising target for atmospheric characterisation with the JWST. Additionally, the radial velocity data show evidence for another planet candidate with $P_{[c]} = 14.303 +/- 0.035$ d, which is likely unrelated to the stellar rotation period, $P_{rot} = 122+/-13$ d, which we determined from archival HATNet and ASAS-SN photometry combined with newly obtained TJO data., Comment: 24 pages; accepted for publication in A&A

After performing the morpho-kinematic analysis of the planetary nebula (PN) PC 22, we now present its nebular and stellar analysis. The plasma investigation relies on the novel use of a Monte Carlo analysis associated to the PyNeb code for the uncertainty propagation. The innermost region of the nebula shows electronic temperatures $T_{\rm e}$ $\approx$ 10,800~K using [NII] and $\approx$ 13,000 K using [OIII] and electronic densities $n_{\rm e}$ $\approx$ 600~cm$^{-3}$. We also used for the first time a Machine Learning Algorithm to calculate Ionisation Correction Factors (ICFs) specifically adapted to PC 22. This has allowed us to have pioneer ICFs for (S$^{+}$ + S$^{++}$)/O$^{++}$, Cl$^{++}$/O$^{++}$, and Ar$^{3+}$+Ar$^{4+}$, as well as a possible new determination for the total abundance of neon. The study of the stellar spectrum revealed the presence of broad emission lines consistent with a Wolf-Rayet-type [WR] classification and more precisely a [WO1]-subtype based on different qualitative and quantitative criteria. This classification is also coherent with the high stellar temperature derived from the reproduction of the ionization state of the gas with the Mexican Million Models database (3MdB) and the best fit model obtained with the NLTE model atmosphere code PoWR. PC 22 is therefore a new addition to the [WO1]-subtype PNe., Comment: 19 pages, 11 figures, 9 tables. Accepted for publication in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society

Thanks to the relative ease of finding and characterizing small planets around M dwarf stars, these objects have become cornerstones in the field of exoplanet studies. The current paucity of planets in long-period orbits around M dwarfs make such objects particularly compelling as they provide clues about the formation and evolution of these systems. In this study, we present the discovery of TOI-2257 b (TIC 198485881), a long-period (35 d) sub-Neptune orbiting an M3 star at 57.8pc. Its transit depth is about 0.4%, large enough to be detected with medium-size, ground-based telescopes. The long transit duration suggests the planet is in a highly eccentric orbit ($e \sim 0.5$), which would make it the most eccentric planet that is known to be transiting an M-dwarf star. We combined TESS and ground-based data obtained with the 1.0-m SAINT-EX, 0.60-m TRAPPIST-North and 1.2-m FLWO telescopes to find a planetary size of 2.2 $R_{\oplus}$ and an orbital period of 35.19 days. In addition, we make use of archival data, high-resolution imaging, and vetting packages to support our planetary interpretation. With its long period and high eccentricity, TOI-2257 b falls in a novel slice of parameter space. Despite the planet's low equilibrium temperature ($\sim$ 256 K), its host star's small size ($R_* = 0.311 \pm{0.015}$) and relative infrared brightness (K$_{mag}$ = 10.7) make it a suitable candidate for atmospheric exploration via transmission spectroscopy., Comment: 18 pages, 12 figures, 2 appendices, Accepted for publication in Astronomy and Astrophysics

We present a multi-wavelength characterisation of the planetary nebula (PN) NGC 6905 and its [Wolf-Rayet]-type ([WR]) central star (CSPN) HD 193949. Our Nordic Optical Telescope (NOT) Alhambra Faint Object Spectrograph and Camera (ALFOSC) spectra and images unveil in unprecedented detail the high-ionization structure of NGC 6905. The high-quality spectra of HD 193949 allowed us to detect more than 20 WR features including the characteristic O-bump, blue bump and red bump, which suggests a spectral type no later than a [WO2]-subtype. Moreover we detect the Ne VII and Ne VIII broad emission lines, rendering HD 193949 yet another CSPN with $T_\mathrm{eff}\lesssim150$ kK exhibiting such stellar emission lines. We studied the physical properties ($T_\mathrm{e}$ and $n_\mathrm{e}$) and chemical abundances of different regions within NGC 6905 including its low-ionization clumps; abundances are found to be homogeneous. We used the PoWR stellar atmosphere code to model the spectrum of HD 193949, which is afterwards used in a photoionization model performed with Cloudy that reproduces the nebular and dust properties for a total mass in the 0.31-0.47 M$_{\odot}$ range and a mass of C-rich dust of $\sim$2 $\times10^{-3}$ M$_{\odot}$. Adopting a current stellar mass of 0.6 M$_{\odot}$, our model suggests an initial mass $\sim$1 M$_\odot$ for HD 193949, consistent with the observations., Comment: To appear in MNRAS; 17 pages, 9 figures, 10 tables

We present the first instalment of a deep imaging catalogue containing 58 True, Likely and Possible extended PNe detected with the Isaac Newton Telescope Photometric H$\alpha$ Survey (IPHAS). The three narrow-band filters in the emission lines of H$\alpha$, [N II] $\lambda$6584 \r{A} and [O III] $\lambda$5007 \r{A} used for this purpose allowed us to improve our description of the morphology and dimensions of the nebulae. In some cases even the nature of the source has been reassessed. We were then able to unveil new macro-and micro-structures, which will without a doubt contribute to a more accurate analysis of these PNe. It has been also possible to perform a primary classification of the targets based on their ionization level. A Deep Learning classification tool has also been tested. We expect that all the PNe from the IPHAS catalogue of new extended planetary nebulae will ultimately be part of this deep H$\alpha$, [N II] and [O III] imaging catalogue., Comment: 19 pages, 15 figures, 4 tables; accepted to MNRAS

We present a comprehensive analysis of the compact planetary nebula M2-31 investigating its spectral properties, spatio-kinematical structure and chemical composition using GTC MEGARA integral field spectroscopic observations and NOT ALFOSC medium-resolution spectra and narrow-band images. The GTC MEGARA high-dispersion observations have remarkable tomographic capabilities, producing an unprecedented view of the morphology and kinematics of M2-31 that discloses a fast spectroscopic bipolar outflow along position angles 50$^\circ$ and 230$^\circ$, an extended shell and a toroidal structure or waist surrounding the central star perpendicularly aligned with the fast outflows. These observations also show that the C II emission is confined in the central region and enclosed by the [N II] emission. This is the first time that the spatial segregation revealed by a 2D map of the C II line implies the presence of multiple plasma components. The deep NOT ALFOSC observations allowed us to detect broad WR features from the central star of M2-31, including previously undetected broad O VI lines that suggest a reclassification as a [WO4]-type star., Comment: 12 pages, 8 figures, 3 tables; accepted to MNRAS

Large sub-Neptunes are uncommon around the coolest stars in the Galaxy and are rarer still around those that are metal-poor. However, owing to the large planet-to-star radius ratio, these planets are highly suitable for atmospheric study via transmission spectroscopy in the infrared, such as with JWST. Here we report the discovery and validation of a sub-Neptune orbiting the thick-disk, mid-M dwarf star TOI-2406. We first infer properties of the host star by analysing the star's near-infrared spectrum, spectral energy distribution, and Gaia parallax. We use multi-band photometry to confirm that the transit event is on-target and achromatic, and we statistically validate the TESS signal as a transiting exoplanet. We then determine physical properties of the planet through global transit modelling of the TESS and ground-based time-series data. We determine the host to be a metal-poor M4V star, located at a distance of 56 pc, with a sub-solar metallicity $(\mathrm{[Fe/H] = -0.38 \pm 0.07})$, and a member of the thick disk. The planet is a relatively large sub-Neptune for the M-dwarf planet population, with $\mathrm{R_p = 2.94 \pm 0.17} \mathrm{R_\oplus}$ and $\mathrm{P = 3.077}$ d, producing transits of 2% depth. We note the orbit has a non-zero eccentricity to 3$\mathrm{\sigma}$, prompting questions about the dynamical history of the system. This system is an interesting outcome of planet formation and presents a benchmark for large-planet formation around metal-poor, low-mass stars. The system warrants further study, in particular radial velocity follow-up to determine the planet mass and constrain possible bound companions. Furthermore, TOI-2406 b is a good target for future atmospheric study through transmission spectroscopy, particularly in the category of warm sub-Neptunes., Comment: Accepted for publication in Astronomy and Astrophysics

The INT Galactic Plane Survey (IGAPS) is the merger of the optical photometric surveys, IPHAS and UVEX, based on data from the Isaac Newton Telescope (INT) obtained between 2003 and 2018. These capture the entire northern Galactic plane within the Galactic coordinate range, -5

Water maser emitting planetary nebulae (H$_2$O-PNe) are believed to be among the youngest PNe. We present new optical narrow- and broad-band images, intermediate- and high-resolution long-slit spectra, and archival optical images of the H$_2$O-PN IRAS 18061--2505. It appears a pinched-waist bipolar PN consisting of knotty lobes with some point-symmetric regions, a bow-shock near the tip of each lobe, and a very compact inner nebula where five components are identified in the spectra by their kinematic and emission properties. The water masers most probably reside in an oxygen-rich ring tracing the equatorial region of the bipolar lobes. These two structures probably result from common envelope evolution plus several bipolar and non-bipolar collimated outflows that have distorted the lobes. The bow-shocks could be related to a previous phase to that of common envelope. The inner nebula may be attributed to a late or very late thermal pulse that occurred before 1951.6 when it was not detectable in the POSSI-Blue image. Chemical abundances and other properties favour a 3--4 M$_{\odot}$ progenitor, although if the common envelope phase accelerated the evolution of the central star, masses <1.5 M$_{\odot}$ cannot be discarded. The age of the bipolar lobes is incompatible with the existence of water masers in IRAS 18061--2505, which may have been lately reactivated through shocks in the oxygen-rich ring, that are generated by the thermal pulse, implying that this PN is not extremely young. We discuss H$_2$O-PNe and possibly related objects in the light of our results for IRAS 18061--2505., Comment: Submitted to MNRAS (second version incorporating the referee's comments). 20 pages, 11 figures, 4 tables; 3 appendices. The quality of some figues has been reduced

We present the analysis of XMM-Newton European Photon Imaging Camera (EPIC) observations of the nova shell IPHASX J210204.7$+$471015. We detect X-ray emission from the progenitor binary star with properties that resemble those of underluminous intermediate polars such as DQ Her: an X-ray-emitting plasma with temperature of $T_\mathrm{X}=(6.4\pm3.1)\times10^{6}$ K, a non-thermal X-ray component, and an estimated X-ray luminosity of $L_\mathrm{X}=10^{30}$ erg s$^{-1}$. Time series analyses unveil the presence of two periods, the dominant with a period of $2.9\pm0.2$ hr, which might be attributed to the spin of the white dwarf, and a secondary of $4.5\pm0.6$ hr that is in line with the orbital period of the binary system derived from optical observations. We do not detect extended X-ray emission as in other nova shells probably due to its relatively old age (130-170 yr) or to its asymmetric disrupted morphology which is suggestive of explosion scenarios different to the symmetric ones assumed in available numerical simulations of nova explosions., Comment: 6 pages and 5 Figures; Accepted to MNRAS

We report H$\alpha$ filter photometry for 197 northern hemisphere planetary nebulae (PNe) obtained using imaging data from the IPHAS survey. H$\alpha$+[N II] fluxes were measured for 46 confirmed or possible PNe discovered by the IPHAS survey and for 151 previously catalogued PNe that fell within the area of the northern Galactic Plane surveyed by IPHAS. After correcting for [N II] emission admitted by the IPHAS H$\alpha$ filter, the resulting H$\alpha$ fluxes were combined with published radio free-free fluxes and H$\beta$ fluxes, in order to estimate mean optical extinctions to 143 PNe using ratios involving their integrated Balmer line fluxes and their extinction-free radio fluxes. Distances to the PNe were then estimated using three different 3D interstellar dust extinction mapping methods, including the IPHAS-based H-MEAD algorithm of Sale (2014). These methods were used to plot dust extinction versus distance relationships for the lines of sight to the PNe; the intercepts with the derived dust optical extinctions allowed distances to the PNe to be inferred. For 17 of the PNe in our sample reliable Gaia DR2 distances were available and these have been compared with the distances derived using three different extinction mapping algorithms as well as with distances from the nebular radius vs. H$\alpha$ surface brightness relation of Frew et al. (2016). That relation and the H-MEAD extinction mapping algorithm yielded the closest agreement with the Gaia DR2 distances., Comment: Accepted by MNRAS, 13 pages, 3 figures. Author accepted manuscript. Accepted on 04/12/2020. Deposited on 04/12/2020

We present a detailed analysis of the new planetary nebula (PN) IPHASX J193718.6+202102 using deep imaging and intermediate- and high resolution spectroscopy that are interpreted through morpho-kinematic and photoionisation modelling. The physical structure of the nebula consists of a fragmented torus and an extremely faint orthogonal bipolar outflow, contrary to the pinched waist PN morphology suggested by its optical image. Our kinematic analysis indicates that the torus is expanding at 25$\pm$5 km s$^{-1}$ and is gradually breaking up. At an estimated distance of 7.1$_{-0.3}^{+0.8}$ kpc, the corresponding kinematic age of $\sim$26000 years is consistent with a faint and disintegrating PN. The intermediate-resolution spectra reveal an excited PN with chemical abundances typical of Type II PNe. Based on the latter we also estimate an initial mass for the progenitor in the range 2--3 M$_{\odot}$ and a central star (CSPN) mass $M_\mathrm{CSPN}\sim$0.61 M$_{\odot}$. The Spitzer MIPS 24 $\mu$m emission that closely follows the fragmented torus could be attributed to the emission of [O IV] at 25.9 $\mu$m rather than to dust emission. All the results coherently point towards an evolved moderately massive bipolar Type II PN on the brink of dissolving into the interstellar medium., Comment: 12 pages, 9 figures, accepted for publication in MNRAS

HuBi 1 has been proposed to be member of the rare class of born-again planetary nebulae (PNe), i.e., its central star experienced a very late thermal pulse and ejected highly-processed material at high speeds inside the old hydrogen-rich PN. In this letter we present GTC MEGARA integral field spectroscopic observations of the innermost regions of HuBi 1 at high spectral resolution $\simeq16$ km s$^{-1}$ and multi-epoch sub-arcsec images obtained $\simeq 12$ yr apart. The analysis of these data indicates that the inner regions of HuBi 1 were ejected $\simeq200$ yr ago and expand at velocities $\simeq300$ km s$^{-1}$, in excellent agreement with the born-again scenario. The unprecedented tomographic capabilities of the GTC MEGARA high-dispersion observations used here reveal that the ejecta in HuBi 1 has a shell-like structure, in contrast to the disrupted disk and jet morphology of the ejecta in other born-again PNe., Comment: 7 pages, 5 Figures; accepted to ApJL

We present the first detailed study of the bipolar planetary nebula (PN) IPHASX J191104.8$+$060845 (PN G040.6$-$01.5) discovered as part of the Isaac Newton Telescope Photometric H$\alpha$ Survey of the Northern Galactic plane (IPHAS). We present Nordic Optical Telescope (NOT) narrow-band images to unveil its true morphology. This PN consists of a main cavity with two newly uncovered extended low-surface brightness lobes located towards the NW and SE directions. Using near-IR WISE images we unveiled the presence of a barrel like structure, which surrounds the main cavity, which would explain the dark lane towards the equatorial regions. We also use Gran Telescopio de Canarias (GTC) spectra to study the physical properties of this PN. We emphasise the potential of old PNe detected in IPHAS to study the final stages of the evolution of the circumstellar medium around solar-like stars., Comment: 9 pages, 8 Figures, 3 Tables; Accepted to MNRAS

We report the discovery and characterisation of a super-Earth and a sub-Neptune transiting the bright ($K=8.8$), quiet, and nearby (37 pc) M3V dwarf TOI-1266. We validate the planetary nature of TOI-1266 b and c using four sectors of TESS photometry and data from the newly-commissioned 1-m SAINT-EX telescope located in San Pedro M\'artir (Mexico). We also include additional ground-based follow-up photometry as well as high-resolution spectroscopy and high-angular imaging observations. The inner, larger planet has a radius of $R=2.37_{-0.12}^{+0.16}$ R$_{\oplus}$ and an orbital period of 10.9 days. The outer, smaller planet has a radius of $R=1.56_{-0.13}^{+0.15}$ R$_{\oplus}$ on an 18.8-day orbit. The data are found to be consistent with circular, co-planar and stable orbits that are weakly influenced by the 2:1 mean motion resonance. Our TTV analysis of the combined dataset enables model-independent constraints on the masses and eccentricities of the planets. We find planetary masses of $M_\mathrm{p}$ = $13.5_{-9.0}^{+11.0}$ $\mathrm{M_{\oplus}}$ ($<36.8$ $\mathrm{M_{\oplus}}$ at 2-$\sigma$) for TOI-1266 b and $2.2_{-1.5}^{+2.0}$ $\mathrm{M_{\oplus}}$ ($<5.7$ $\mathrm{M_{\oplus}}$ at 2-$\sigma$) for TOI-1266 c. We find small but non-zero orbital eccentricities of $0.09_{-0.05}^{+0.06}$ ($<0.21$ at 2-$\sigma$) for TOI-1266 b and $0.04\pm0.03$ ($<0.10$ at 2-$\sigma$) for TOI-1266 c. The equilibrium temperatures of both planets are of $413\pm20$ K and $344\pm16$ K, respectively, assuming a null Bond albedo and uniform heat redistribution from the day-side to the night-side hemisphere. The host brightness and negligible activity combined with the planetary system architecture and favourable planet-to-star radii ratios makes TOI-1266 an exquisite system for a detailed characterisation., Comment: In press. Accepted for publication in Astronomy and Astrophysics on 20 July 2020

We present the analysis of the planetary nebula (PN) NGC 2371 around the [Wolf-Rayet] ([WR]) star WD 0722$+$295. Our Isaac Newton Telescope (INT) Intermediate Dispersion Spectrograph (IDS) spectra, in conjunction with archival optical and UV images, unveil in unprecedented detail the high-ionisation of NGC 2371. The nebula has an apparent multipolar morphology, with two pairs of lobes protruding from a barrel-like central cavity, a pair of dense low-ionisation knots misaligned with the symmetry axis embedded within the central cavity, and a high excitation halo mainly detected in He II. The abundances from the barrel-like central cavity and dense knots agree with abundance determinations for other PNe with [WR]-type CSPNe. We suggest that the densest knots inside NGC 2371 are the oldest structures, remnant of a dense equatorial structure, whilst the main nebular shell and outer lobes resulted from a latter ejection that ended the stellar evolution. The analysis of position-velocity diagrams produced from our high-quality spectra suggests that NGC 2371 has a bipolar shape with each lobe presenting a double-structure protruding from a barrel-like central region. The analysis of the spectra of WD 0722$+$295 results in similar stellar parameters as previously reported. We corroborate that the spectral sub-type corresponds with a [WO1] type., Comment: 15 pages, 12 figures, 5 tables; accepted to MNRAS

We present an analysis of archival Chandra and XMM-Newton observations of the magnetically-active cataclysmic variable DQ Her and the shell around it ejected in a nova event in 1934. A careful revision of the Chandra observations confirms previous claims on the presence of extended X-ray emission around DQ Her and reveals that it actually corresponds to a bipolar jet-like structure extending $\simeq$32$''$ along a direction from NE to SW. Therefore, this X-ray emission extends beyond the optical nova shell and is perpendicular to its major axis. The XMM-Newton observations confirm the presence of the extended X-ray emission detected by Chandra, suggesting the additional presence of a diffuse X-ray emission from a hot bubble filling the nova shell. This hot bubble was very likely produced by the explosion that created the nebular shell detected in optical images. The bipolar feature can be modelled by the combination of an optically thin plasma emission component with temperature $T\approx2\times10^{6}$ K and a power law component with a photon index of $\Gamma=1.1\pm0.9$. Its X-ray luminosity in the 0.3 - 5 keV energy range is $L_\mathrm{X}=(2.1\pm1.3)\times10^{29}$ erg s$^{-1}$, for an electron density $n_\mathrm{e}\approx2$ cm$^{-3}$ and a mass $m_\mathrm{X}\approx 3\times10^{-6}$ M$_{\odot}$. We suggest that the X-ray bipolar structure in DQ Her is a jet and interpret its non-thermal X-ray emission in terms of a magnetized jet., Comment: 8 pages, 4 figures, 1 table; accepted to MNRAS

In a continuing effort to investigate the role of magnetic fields in evolved low and intermediate mass stars (principally regarding the shaping of their envelopes), we present new ALMA high resolution polarization data obtained for the nebula OH 231.8+4.2. We found that the polarized emission likely arises from aligned grains in the presence of magnetic fields rather than radiative alignment and self scattering. The ALMA data show well organized electric field orientations in most of the nebula and the inferred magnetic field vectors (rotated by 90 degrees) trace an hourglass morphology centred on the central system of the nebula. One region in the southern part of OH 231.8+4.2 shows a less organized distribution probably due to the shocked environment. These findings, in conjunction with earlier investigations (maser studies and dust emission analysis at other scales and wavelengths) suggest an overall magnetic hourglass located inside a toroidal field. We propose the idea that the magnetic field structure is closely related to the architecture of a magnetic tower and that the outflows were therefore magnetically launched. While the current dynamical effect of the fields might be weak in the equatorial plane principally due to the evolution of the envelope, it would still be affecting the outflows. In that regard, the measurement of the magnetic field at the stellar surface, which is still missing, combined with a full MHD treatment are required to better understand and constrain the events occurring in OH 231.8+4.2., Comment: 9 pages, 7 figures, accepted for publication in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society Main Journal

We present a near-infrared imaging polarimetric study of the pre-planetary nebula: Frosty Leo. The observations were carried out in J, H and K' bands using the new polarimeter POLICAN mounted on the 2.1m telescope of the Guillermo Haro Astrophysical Observatory, Sonora, Mexico. The most prominent result observed in the polarization maps is a large and well defined dusty envelope (35\arcsec\ diameter in H-band). The polarization position angles in the envelope are particularly well ordered and nearly parallel to the equator of the nebula (seen in J and H bands). The nebula presents a known bipolar outflow and the envelope completely wraps around it. Within the bipolar lobes, we find high polarization levels ranging from $60\%$ (J band) to $90\%$ (K' band) and the polarization angles trace a centrosymmetric pattern. We found the remnants of superwind shells at the edges of the bipolar lobes and the duration of this phase is around 600 yrs. The origin of polarization features in the nebula is most likely due to a combination of single and multiple scattering. Our results clearly demonstrate new structures that provide new hints on the evolution of Frosty Leo from its previous asymptotic giant branch phase., Comment: 5 figures, 9 pages, accepted in MNRAS

We present a detailed comparative study of the arcs and fragmented ring-like features in the haloes of the planetary nebulae (PNe) NGC 6543, NGC 7009, and NGC 7027 and the spiral pattern around the carbon star AFGL 3068 using high-quality multi-epoch HST images. This comparison allows us to investigate the connection and possible evolution between the regular patterns surrounding AGB stars and the irregular concentric patterns around PNe. The radial proper motion of these features, ~15 km/s, are found to be consistent with the AGB wind and their linear sizes and inter-lapse times (500-1900 yr) also agree with those found around AGB stars, suggesting a common origin. We find evidence using radiative-hydrodynamic simulations that regular patterns produced at the end of the AGB phase become highly distorted by their interactions with the expanding PN and the anisotropic illumination and ionization patterns caused by shadow instabilities. These processes will disrupt the regular (mostly spiral) patterns around AGB stars, plausibly becoming the arcs and fragmented rings observed in the haloes of PNe., Comment: 13 pages, 9 figures, accepted for publication in MNRAS

We present a multiwavelength study of the iconic Bubble Nebula (NGC 7635) and its ionising star BD$+$60$^{\circ}$2522. We obtained XMM-Newton EPIC X-ray observations to search for extended X-ray emission as in other similar wind-blown bubbles around massive stars. We also obtained San Pedro M\'{a}rtir spectroscopic observations with the Manchester Echelle Spectrometer to study the dynamics of the Bubble Nebula. Although our EPIC observations are deep, we do not detect extended X-ray emission from this wind-blown bubble. On the other hand, BD$+$60$^{\circ}$2522 is a bright X-ray source similar to other O stars. We used the stellar atmosphere code PoWR to characterise BD$+$60$^{\circ}$2522 and found that this star is a young O-type star with stellar wind capable of producing a wind-blown bubble that in principle could be filled with hot gas. We discussed our findings in line with recent numerical simulations proposing that the Bubble Nebula has been formed as the result of the fast motion of BD$+$60$^{\circ}$2522 through the medium. Our kinematic study shows that the Bubble Nebula is composed by a series of nested shells, some showing blister-like structures, but with little signatures of hydrodynamical instabilities that would mix the material producing diffuse X-ray emission as seen in other wind-blown bubbles. Its morphology seems to be merely the result of projection effects of these different shells., Comment: 10 Figures, 1 Table; Accepted to MNRAS

Nova shells can provide us with important information on their distance, their interactions with the circumstellar and interstellar media, and the evolution in morphology of the ejecta. We have obtained narrow-band images of a sample of five nova shells, namely DQHer, FHSer, TAur, V476Cyg, and V533Her, with ages in the range from 50 to 130 years. These images have been compared with suitable available archival images to derive their angular expansion rates. We find that all the nova shells in our sample are still in the free expansion phase, which can be expected, as the mass of the ejecta is 7-45 times larger than the mass of the swept-up circumstellar medium. The nova shells will keep expanding freely for time periods up to a few hundred years, reducing their time dispersal into the interstellar medium., Comment: 8 pages, 2 figures, 3 tables. Accepted for publication in ApJ

The INT Galactic Plane Survey (IGAPS) is the merger of the optical photometric surveys, IPHAS and UVEX, based on data from the Isaac Newton Telescope (INT) obtained between 2003 and 2018. Here, we present the IGAPS point source catalogue. It contains 295.4 million rows providing photometry in the filters, i, r, narrow-band Halpha, g and U_RGO. The IGAPS footprint fills the Galactic coordinate range, |b| < 5deg and 30deg < l < 215deg. A uniform calibration, referred to the Pan-STARRS system, is applied to g, r and i, while the Halpha calibration is linked to r and then is reconciled via field overlaps. The astrometry in all 5 bands has been recalculated on the Gaia DR2 frame. Down to i ~ 20 mag (Vega system), most stars are also detected in g, r and Halpha. As exposures in the r band were obtained within the IPHAS and UVEX surveys a few years apart, typically, the catalogue includes two distinct r measures, r_I and r_U. The r 10sigma limiting magnitude is ~21, with median seeing 1.1 arcsec. Between ~13th and ~19th magnitudes in all bands, the photometry is internally reproducible to within 0.02 magnitudes. Stars brighter than r=19.5 have been tested for narrow-band Halpha excess signalling line emission, and for variation exceeding |r_I-r_U| = 0.2 mag. We find and flag 8292 candidate emission line stars and over 53000 variables (both at >5sigma confidence). The 174-column catalogue will be available via CDS Strasbourg., Comment: 28 pages, 22 figures

We perform numerical simulations to investigate the stellar wind from interacting binary stars. Our aim is to find analytical formulae describing the outflow structure. In each binary system the more massive star is in the asymptotic giant branch and its wind is driven by a combination of pulsations in the stellar surface layers and radiation pressure on dust, while the less massive star is in the main sequence. Time averages of density and outflow velocity of the stellar wind are calculated and plotted as profiles against distance from the centre of mass and colatitude angle. We find that mass is lost mainly through the outer Lagrangian point L2. The resultant outflow develops into a spiral at low distances from the binary. The outflowing spiral is quickly smoothed out by shocks and becomes an excretion disk at larger distances. This leads to the formation of an outflow structure with an equatorial density excess, which is greater in binaries with smaller orbital separation. The pole-to-equator density ratio reaches a maximum value of $\sim10^5$ at Roche-Lobe Overflow state. We also find that the gas stream leaving L2 does not form a circumbinary ring for stellar mass ratios above 0.78, when radiation pressure on dust is taken into account. Analytical formulae are obtained by curve fitting the 2-dimensional, azimuthally averaged density and outflow velocity profiles. The formulae can be used in future studies to setup the initial outflow structure in hydrodynamic simulations of common-envelope evolution and formation of planetary nebulae., Comment: 13 pages, 17 figures, accepted for publication in MNRAS

We present a polarimetric investigation of the protoplanetary nebula Frosty Leo performed with the Submillimeter Array. We were able to detect, in the low continuum level (peak at 14.4 mJy beam$^{-1}$), a marginal polarization at $\sim2.6\sigma$. The molecular line investigation based on the CO $J=3\rightarrow2$ emission shows a peak emission of 68.1 Jy beam$^{-1}$ km s$^{-1}$ and the polarization detection in this CO line is also marginal, with a peak at $\sim3.8\sigma$. In both cases, it was therefore not possible to use the electric vector maps (B-field) to accurately trace the magnetic field (B-field) within the PPN. The spatio-kinematic modelling realised with the different velocity channel maps indicates three main structures: a distorted torus accompanied by a bipolar outflow or jet aligned with its axis and a flattened spherical "cap". The comparison of the CO polarization segments with our model suggests that the polarized emission probably arises in the first two components., Comment: 8 pages, Accepted for publication in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society

The parallax expansion and kinematics of a nova shell can be used to assess its age and distance, and to investigate the interaction of the ejecta with the circumstellar medium. These are key to understand the expansion and dispersal of the nova ejecta in the Galaxy. Multi-epoch images and high-dispersion spectroscopic observations of the recently discovered classical nova shell IPHASXJ210204.7+471015 around a nova-like system have been used to derive a present day expansion rate of 0.100 arcsec/yr and an expansion velocity of 285 km/s. These data are combined to obtain a distance of 600 pc to the nova. The secular expansion of the nova shell place the event sometime between 1850 and 1890, yet it seems to have been missed at that time. Despite its young age, 130-170 yrs, we found indications that the ejecta has already experienced a noticeable deceleration, indicating the interaction of this young nova shell with the surrounding medium., Comment: 8 pages, 5 figures, Accepted for publication in MNRAS