I am delighted to announce that Mike Foylan has discovered his first variable star from Ireland. Mike was using an 8 inch telescope and camera at his observatory near Trim, Co. Meath when doing light measurements of minor planet 3492 Petra-Pepi.
He was testing a software routine within older data when the discovery was made.
The variable star is possibly an eclipsing binary. The star is in the constellation of Ophiuchus with a V-mag of +14.5, its designation is GSC 5065:218. It has relatively short period between 2 and 4 hours. The star can be seen from Ireland this month.
Here is the transcript of alert as follows…
B.A.A. member Mike Foylan (Cherryvalley Observatory Ireland, IAU
observatory code I83) has reported that he has discovered a new
variable star. Brian Warner (Centre for Solar System Studies - USA)
has kindly provided confirmation observations which show it is
probably an EA type of EB, but we need more observations to confirm
its type and period.
The star in question is GSC 5065-218 which has a mag of 13.96V (APASS)
with a B-V of 0.91. Its position is RA 17h12m29 Dec -0 41' 20".
Observers suitably equipped are requested to undertake time-series
observation (ideally in both B and V) during the current season so
that we can define its type more accurately.
Please post observations to the BAAVSS or AAVSO in the usual way.
Roger Pickard
Eamonn Ansbro
The following user(s) said Thank You: Seanie_Morris, dave_lillis, johnflannery, michaeloconnell, michael_murphy, johnomahony, paddyman, Mike, Graham, Kinch and 4 other people also said thanks.
Excellent work Mike - MP photometry does have its spin-offs.
This would be a great opportunity for folks here to have a go and get more data. Its easily bright enough for the smaller astrophotography set ups and that should quickly lead to getting the period nailed.
Did you consider sending a submission to AAVSO? I'm not sure of the strength of data required for inclusion in their database (VSX) but I'd imagine even a note to them might result in someone else having a look at what appears to be an easy enough target.
Congratulations Mike, you're adding to Irelands amateur astronomical reputation.
Paul
Programming today is a race between software engineers striving to build bigger and better programs, and the universe trying to produce bigger and better idiots. So far, the universe is winning.
Congrats Mike..............in truth I have no idea how much work, checking and rechecking went on at the sharp end of your scope but it must be a fantastic feeling to make such a find. Sometimes hard work (even if we are enjoying it) just pays off. Again....well done!
  