A sub-arcecond-scale spectroscopic study of the complex mass outflows in the vicinity of T Tauri

Abstract

High-resolution, long-slit spectra in the 6250-6800 A range, obtained at various position angles from the emission nebulosities around T Tau, are presented. Using a method recently developed by Solf, we have eliminated the contribution of the stellar continuum spectrum to the detected emission lines and determined position-velocity diagrams of the (O I), (N II), and (S II) lines to the immediate vicintiy of the star. We identify at least five individual components (A, B, C, D, and E) in the complex emission-line structure which are distinguished by their spatial distribution and their related kinematic properties. Each line component can be attributed to a separate nebular condensation in the mass outflows associated with the T Tau system.