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Paper: δ Scuti variables as precise distance indicators
Volume: 167, Harmonizing Cosmic Distance Scales in a Post-Hipparcos Era
Page: 107
Authors: Petersen, J. O.
Abstract: Two recent period-luminosity relations for high-amplitude δ Scuti stars, an empirical relation based on Hipparcos parallaxes and a semi-empirical relation based on standard photometry and theoretical stellar evolution model sequences, are briefly compared. They are in very good agreement and define an average period-luminosity relation for δ~Scuti stars with an accuracy of about ±0.10 mag. Direct stellar evolution and pulsation modelling also confirm this relation. Problems in practical application of the relation are considered. We conclude that in a few years it will become possible to use high-amplitude δ Scuti stars as precise distance indicators. A particularly interesting project is improvement of the distances to the Galactic Bulge and the Magellanic Clouds as a check of the Cepheid and RR Lyrae distance scales.
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