A collimated, high-speed outflow from the dying star V Hydrae

Stars with masses in the range 1-8 solar masses (M⊙) live ordinary lives for ∼10⁹-10¹⁰ years, but die extraordinary deaths. First, during their death throes as asymptotic giant branch (AGB) stars they eject, over 10⁴-10⁵ years, half or more of their mass in slowly expanding, spherical winds, and then, in a short (a few 100-1, 000 years) and poorly understood phase, they are transformed into aspherical planetary nebula. Recent studies support the idea that high-speed, jet-like flows play a crucial role in this transformation. Evidence for such outflows is indirect, however; this phase is so short that few nearby stars are likely to be caught in the act. Here we report the discovery of a newly launched, high-speed jet-like outflow in the nearby AGB star, V Hydrae. We have detected both proper motions and ongoing evolution in the jet. These results support a model in which the jet is driven by an accretion disk around an unseen, compact companion. We also find a central, dense equatorial disk-like structure which may enable and/or enhance the formation of the accretion disk.

Duke Scholars

Author Ken H Young Pathology