new outburst of Aql X-1
ATel #869; C. Bailyn, E. Neil, D. Maitra (Yale University)
on 31 Jul 2006; 15:55 UT
Credential Certification: Charles Bailyn (bailyn@astro.yale.edu)
Subjects: Infra-Red, Optical, Binary, Neutron Star, Transient
Ongoing optical/IR monitoring of Aql X-1 with the SMARTS 1.3m telescope
and ANDICAM instrument at CTIO show a steady rise over the past three
days. Our most recent data show that on July 31, UT 5:08 (mid-exposure)
the source was at R=17.8, J=16.1, compared to mean quiescent values
of R=18.8, J=16.7. These magnitudes include the unrelated star 0.5"
away (Chevalier et al. 1999 A&A 347, L51). Thus Aql X-1 appears to
be initiating a new outburst. SMARTS lightcurves can be seen at http://www.astro.yale.edu/maitra/AqlX-1
