Infrared Spectroscopy of V838 Monocerotis in 2015 and 2022

Abstract

We report medium-resolution $0.85-2.45\hat{I}¼$m spectroscopy obtained in 2015 and 2022 and high resolution $2.27-2.39\hat{I}¼$m and $4.59-4.77\hat{I}¼$m spectroscopy obtained in 2015 of V838 Monocerotis, along with modeling of the $0.85-2.45\hat{I}¼$ spectrum. V838 Mon underwent a series of eruptions and extreme brightenings in 2002, which are thought to have occured as a result of a stellar merger. The new spectra and modelling of them reveal a disturbed red giant photosphere that is probably continuing to contract and ejecta that are cooling and continuing to disperse at velocities up to 200kms${}^{-1}$.

Accepted for publication in MNRAS. Updated to make minor corrections identified at the proof stage