Analysis of Gaia DR3 non-single star (NSS) catalogue with lunar occultations
If you wish to participate in this project:
Check for the list of targets of each month here.
Obtain the yearly local predictions for your location by using the general prediction server - choose the Year, set +10.0 for Max. mag., your name in the Observer field, and Gaia non-single stars in the Object catalogue field (note that the month is irrelevant as predictions will be provided for the whole year).
The html version of the prediction list will contain details of a number of occultations, as long as lunar maps with your chord indicated. Locate the target occultation (additional observation of events not in the list of suggested targets are also welcome).
Cumulative results from the programme can be found here
Links and additional information
A memo with the aims of the project
Access to Gaia DR3 non-single star catalogue for the OLED project
Access to general prediction server
A short technical bibliography
Gaia Data Release 3: Stellar multiplicity, a teaser for the hidden treasure, F. Arenou et al. (Gaia Collaboration), A&A 674, A34 (2023).
Gaia Data Release 3: Astrometric binary star processing, J.-L. Halbwachs et al. A&A 674, A9 (2023).
The Hipparcos and Tycho Catalogues. Astrometric and Photometric Star Catalogues derived from the ESA Hipparcos Space Astrometry Mission, ESA, 1997.
Extension to stars in the catalogue of Proper Motion anomalies
Kervella et al. [ A&A 623, A72 (2019)] have compiled a catalogue of unresolved stars exhibiting a Proper Motion anomaly (PMa) -a measurable change in proper motion between the Hipparcos (J1991.25) and Gaia EDR3 (J2015.5) datasets. This anomaly suggests that the stars (or more precisely, their apparent photocentres) are undergoing acceleration in space, which may indicate the presence of unseen orbital companions. While the lunar occultation technique may not directly detect binary companions, it enables highly accurate position measurements, offering valuable insights into the star’s acceleration.
The dataset used for predictions by our server is a subset of the Kervella et al. catalogue, specifically including sources located within the zodiacal band. These stars are therefore potential candidates for lunar occultation observations. Starting May '25 a list of lunar occultations of stars from the Kervella et al.'s catalogue will be included in the monthly Gaia DR3 NSS list of targets.