Optical identification and spectrum of the supernova remnant G292.0 + 1.8

Abstract

Optical nebulosity has been found coincident with the nonthermal radio source G292.0 + 1.8. The radio properties of the source are like those of other filled-centre supernova remnants. It is the third such supernova remnant discovered in the optical. The spectrum of the nebulosity shows forbidden lines of oxygen and neon, but no Balmer lines. Interstellar reddening of the nebulosity is small, E(B–V) ~ 0.9 mag and its temperature high, T ~ 36 000 K. The data are suggestive of G292.0 + 1.8 being the remnant of a comparatively recent supernova of a massive star (mass ~ 20 M⊙).