COMMISSION 27 OF THE I. A. U.
             INFORMATION BULLETIN ON VARIABLE STARS
                          NUMBER 87

                                         Konkoly Observatory
                                         Budapest
                                         12 March 1965


                  THE SPECTRUM OF Z CIRCINI

     The light curve of Z Cir has recently been discussed by van
Hoof (Information Bulletin Number 41, 1964). The variable is peculiar
in that a rather flat maximum occupies about half of the period (which
is 394d.6). This originally suggested an eclipsing variable but van Hoof
has shown that this is unlikely. Instead he suggests the light curve
resembles most nearly the R CrB type variables though with certain
unique features (a strong periodic tendency and a short interval 
between minima).

     A spectrum of the variable was obtained on 1965 February 25
with the f/2 camera (86A/mm) at the Cassegrain focus of the 74-inch
Radcliffe reflector. This shows the star to be of spectral type M
(strong TiO bands). In addition H-delta is seen in emission. The spectrum
is typical of that expected for a Mira type variable.

     Further photometric observations would be of interest to
establish whether or not the light curve precludes the classification of
the star as a Mira type variable. It may be mentioned that some Mira
type variables do have relatively flat light curves near maximum light
(e.g. S Pavonis, period = 389 days; Campbell, Studies of Long Period
Variables A.A.V.S.O., 1955).

     I am grateful to Professor van Hoof for kindly sending me a
map of the field of Z Cir.

1965, February 26.                         M. W. FEAST
                                   Radcliffe Observatory Pretoria
                                            S. Africa