High-dispersion ultraviolet spectra of the peculiar star RX Puppis.

Abstract

High spectral resolution observations of the peculiar star RX Puppis obtained with the International Ultraviolet Explorer suggest the presence of a complex gaseous ring system which surrounds an accreting hot secondary. The anomalous line intensity ratio of the C IV 1548, 1550 A doublet during the observations exceeded the optically thick limit, implying the presence of a high-velocity wind. Additionally, the C IV doublet exhibits about four or five narrow emission components, which are redshifted up to velocities of at least about + 300 km/s (with respect to the rest wavelength).