HST STIS observations of the mixing layer in the Cat's eye Nebula

Xuan Fang, Martín A. Guerrero, Jesús A. Toalá, You Hua Chu, Robert A. Gruendl

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Planetary nebulae (PNe) are expected to have a ∼105 K interface layer between the ≥106 K inner hot bubble and the ∼104 K optical nebular shell. The PN structure and evolution, and the X-ray emission, depend critically on the efficiency of the mixing of material at this interface layer. However, neither its location nor its spatial extent have ever been determined. Using high-spatial resolution HST STIS spectroscopic observations of the N v λλ 1239,1243 lines in the Cat's Eye Nebula (NGC 6543), we have detected this interface layer and determined its location, extent, and physical properties for the first time in a PN. We confirm that this interface layer, as revealed by the spatial distribution of the N v λ1239 line emission, is located between the hot bubble and the optical nebular shell. We estimate a thickness of 1.5 × 1016 cm and an electron density of ∼200 cm-3 for the mixing layer. With a thermal pressure of ∼2 × 10-8 yncm-2, the mixing layer is in pressure equilibrium with the hot bubble and ionized nebular rim of NGC 6543.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article numberL19
JournalAstrophysical Journal Letters
Volume822
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - May 1 2016

Keywords

  • Outflows
  • Planetary nebulae: general
  • Planetary nebulae: individual (NGC 6543)
  • Stars: winds
  • X-rays: ISM

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
  • Space and Planetary Science

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