The ultraviolet spectra of three N-type carbon stars.

Abstract

The paper reports the successful detection of the ultraviolet spectra of three N-type carbon stars: BL Ori, TX Psc, and T Ind. Exposures of approximately 2-3 hours with the LWR camera of the IUE Satellite at low dispersion were necessary to record the ultraviolet flux. The shortward extension of the photospheric continuum is well exposed down to about 2800 A, with strong molecular and atomic absorption features. The spectrum appears not to be seriously affected by the unknown opacity source which blankets N stars (especially redder ones) in the violet. Emission lines of Mg II (h and k) and C II (2325 A) are conspicuous, indicating the presence of chromospheres in the stars. The ratios of integrated fluxes in the Mg II lines and C II lines to bolometric flux are respectively much smaller and slightly smaller than values observed in oxygen-rich M giants and supergiants.