Note: This text was updated from the original to include the most recent observation. -M. Templeton, 2011 August 11
August 11, 2011: The star V1343 Aquilae is reportedly undergoing a radio flaring episode, and optical observations over the next few weeks are encouraged to track the optical behavior. S.A. Trushkin et al report in ATel #3547 that observations with the RATAN-600 show a large increase in radio fluxes at 4.8, 8.5 and 11.2 GHz beginning around JD 2455777 (2011 August 03) and continuing through the present.
V1343 Aquilae (also known as SS 433), is a galactic microquasar consisting of a stellar mass black hole primary and OB secondary. The system is most famous for emitting relativistic jets generated by the black hole during accretion. It is unclear whether there is a relationship between broadband optical and radio activity in this system. However, the object has not been frequently observed during this season, and optical observations are encouraged, to provide information about the optical state during this radio outburst. The star was last observed at m(vis)=15.2 on JD 2455774.375 (2011 July 31.875; K. Wentzel, Grossostheim, Germany).
V1343 Aql is located at the following (J2000) coordinates:
RA: 19 11 49.60 , Dec: +04 58 58.0
Charts for V1343 Aql may be plotted using VSP: http://www.aavso.org/vsp
All observations -- visual and CCD -- are encouraged. Both CCD time series and transformed BVRcIc photometry would be useful.
Please report observations to the AAVSO using the name "V1343 AQL".
This AAVSO Special Notice was prepared by M. Templeton.
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