Variability of the Ap Star HD9996

Abstract

We present here new measurements of the longitudinal magnetic field (B_e) in the binary system HD9996, where the primary companion is an Ap star. Series of 63 B_e observations was obtained in years 1994-2011 with the 1m optical telescope of the Special Astrophysical Observatory (Russia). New magnetic data allowed us to refine the long-term magnetic period of HD9996 to P_mag=21.8 years. Compilation of archival photometric data showed the existence of long term variations of HD9996 in time scale of 22-23 yr consistent with P_mag}. We identify P_mag with the precession period of the primary Ap star and summarize search for a short-term rotational period and the rotational line broadening in this star.