The YMDB catalog: Young massive detached binaries for the determination of high-precision absolute stellar parameters

¹ Departamento de Astronomía, Universidad de La Serena, Av. Cisternas 1200 Norte, La Serena, Chile
² Gemini Observatory/NSF’s NOIRLab, 670 N. A‘ohoku Place, Hilo, HI 96720, USA
³ Instituto de Astrofísica de La Plata, CONICET–UNLP, Paseo del Bosque s/n, 1900 La Plata, Argentina
⁴ Facultad de Ciencias Astronómicas y Geofísicas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, La Plata, Argentina

Received: 20 June 2024
Accepted: 5 July 2024

Abstract

Context. Massive stars play a crucial role in the cosmic dynamics and chemical evolution of galaxies. Despite their significance, our understanding of their evolution and properties remains limited. An accurate determination of stellar parameters, such as the mass and radius, is essential for advancing our knowledge. Detached eclipsing binaries (DEBs) are particularly valuable for these determinations due to the minimal interaction between their stellar components, allowing for precise measurements.

Aims. This study aims to introduce the Young Massive Detached Binary (YMDB) catalog, designed to address the gap in the high-precision absolute parameter determination for young massive stars. By focusing on DEBs within the spectral range O9-B1, this catalog seeks to provide a reliable database for future astronomical studies and improve our understanding of massive star evolution.

Methods. We conducted a photometric analysis of 87 young massive stars in detached eclipsing systems using TESS light curves (LCs) that were processed through a custom pipeline. This analysis involved determining the amplitude of magnitude variations, orbital periods, times of minima, eccentricities, and the presence of apsidal motion and heartbeat phenomena. A thorough literature review was performed to obtain MK spectral classifications. We performed our own spectral classification of 19 systems to support the sample where a new classification was lacking or inconclusive.

Results. The analysis identified 20 previously unreported binary systems, with 13 newly recognized as variable stars. Among the 87 stars examined, 30 are confirmed as YMDB members, and 25 are candidates pending spectral classification. The exclusion of the remaining 32 stars is attributed to unsuitable spectral types or their nondetached binary nature. Notable findings include the identification of new LC classifications, eccentricities in 13 systems, and heartbeat phenomena in several targets.

Conclusions. The YMDB catalog offers a resource of high-quality LCs and reliable stellar classifications, serving as a valuable tool for the astronomical community.