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Variable Ultraviolet Emission In Sy Muscae, A. G. Michalitsianos, Menas Kafatos

Mathematics, Physics, and Computer Science Faculty Articles and Research

Following the enhancement in ultraviolet flux which we reported previously, we have continued monitoring the symbiotic variable SY Muscae with the International Ultraviolet Explorer (JUE). Over the course of one year, the prominent emission lines of N v, 0 v, C rv, He II appear to be gradually decreasing in absolute intensity. This appears to coincide with a steady decline in electron density in the emission line forming region, as suggested from the Sim] :\1892 and Cm] :\1909 intensity ratio. Our data is consistent with a sudden ejection event in which material expelled from the surface of a hot Teff …