The Z CamPaign Early Results (Abstract)

Volume 40 number 1 (2012)

Mike Simonsen

AAVSO Headquarters, 49 Bay State Road, Cambridge, MA 02138; mikesimonsen@aavso.org

Abstract

(Abstract only) The Z CamPaign is an observing project designed to acquire enough detailed, long-term data to unambiguously classify dwarf novae as bona fide members of the Z Cam sub-type or not. Because the defining characteristic of all Z Cam dwarf novae are “standstills,” a temporary period of relative quiet between maximum and minimum light, we are monitoring these systems for this specific activity. Amateur astronomers are gathering all the data with backyard telescopes as part of an AAVSO Cataclysmic Variable Section observing initiative. We will discuss the organization, science goals, and present early results of the Z CamPaign.