Spectroscopic identifications of blue-Hα-excess sources in the Kepler field of view

Abstract

We present the first results of an ongoing spectroscopic follow-up programme of blue-Hexcess sources within the Kepler field of view in order to identify new cataclysmic variables. Kepler observations of the identified targets in this work will then provide detailed, timeresolved, studies of accretion. Candidates selected from the Kepler-Isaac Newton Telescope Survey were observed with the 4.2-m William Herschel Telescope. Out of 38 observed candidates, we found 11 new cataclysmic variables reported here for the first time, as well as 13 new quasars. Our target selection has a success rate of 29 per cent when searching for cataclysmic variables, and we show how this can be improved by including photometry obtained with the Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer.