Miras and Their Companions (Abstract)

Volume 33 number 1 (2005)

Margarita Karovska

Abstract

(Abstract only) I present recent results from multi-wavelength studies of Miras and their companions. These include the prototype of the Mira-type variables—Mira A (o Cet, Mira)—and its accreting companion Mira B (V2 Cet). The Mira AB interacting binary provides an ideal laboratory for studying mass loss and accretion processes in systems containing an AGB star and a compact accretor, because it is one of the few wind accreting systems in which the components have been resolved and can be studied individually. I highlight here results fromour long term study of accretion processes in this system including recent surprises. I also discuss future prospects of resolving and studying Mira-type stars and their companions using ultra-high resolution at UV wavelengths. NOTE: the author of this abstract has posted an erratum: https://app.aavso.org/jaavso/article/2238/