Observational Constraints, Stellar Models, and Kepler Data for theta Cyg, the Brightest Star Observable by Kepler

The V=4.48 F4 main-sequence star theta Cyg is the brightest star observable in the Kepler spacecraft field-of-view. Short-cadence (58.8 s) photometric data were obtained by Kepler during 2010 June-September. Preliminary analysis shows solar-like oscillations in the frequency range 1200- 2500 microHz. To interpret these data and to motivate further observations, we use observational constraints from the literature to construct stellar evolution and pulsation models for this star. We compare the observed large frequency separation of the solar-like oscillations with the model predictions, and discuss the prospects for gamma Doradus-like g-mode pulsations, given the observational constraints. We discuss the value of angular diameter measurements from optical interferometry for constraining stellar properties and the implications for asteroseismology.
Comment: Proceedings submission for Resolving the Future of Long-Baseline Interferometry, Socorro, NM, March 28-31, 2011, 10 pages