Mid-infrared photometry of carbon stars and perspectives for surveys in the Magellanic Clouds from Dome-C

Abstract

A preliminary analysis of the data from the MSX space infrared satellite, seems to confirm that the [8.8]-[12.5] micron color index is well correlated with the mass-loss rates in carbon stars of our Galaxy. The extension of this mid-infrared observation criterion to the Magellanic Clouds, with a small-size telescope, able to perform a continuous survey from Dome-C on the Antarctic Plateau, could be crucial to trace the local AGB population and evolution.

5 pages, 3 figures. In: Memorie SAIt - Supplementi, 2003, vol. 2, "The scientific outlook for Astronomy and Astrophysics Research at the Concordia Station: Recommendations for Future Developments.", E.Fossat & M. Candidi editors. Proceed. of the International Workshop held in Capri, April 28-30, 2003. pag. 233