The distances of less-evolved planetary nebulae: a further test of statistical distance scales
Year: 2005
Type: article
Abstract: It has recently been pointed out that a number of the methods used to determine planetary nebulae (PNe) distances may be appreciably in error. Whilst the scales of Zhang (1995), Bensby & Lundstrom (2001) and others are appropriate for higher radio brightness temperatures TB, those of Phillips and Daub are more relevant where TB is small. We note, in the following, that the absolute bolometric magnitudes of less-evolved PNe are likely to be similar. The mean value of 〈MBOL〉 can therefore be used to constrain PNe distances D, and confirm the distance scales for higher TB outflows. We have used this procedure to evaluate distances to a further 47 PNe, and we find that the mean values of 〈D〉 are consistent with those of Cahn, Kaler & Stanghellini (1992), Zhang (1995), Phillips et al. (2004) and van de Steene & Zijlstra (1995). They are, as expected, inconsistent with the lower TB scale of Phillips (2002a).
Author: J. P. Phillips
Institution: Universidad de Guadalajara
Language: English
Subfield: Astronomy and Astrophysics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W2164720321