iPTF16fnl: Likely Tidal Disruption Event at 65 Mpc

Abstract

We report the detection of a nuclear transient, iPTF16fnl, discovered on UT 26 August 2016 in a nearby galaxy (Mrk 950) at z=0.0163. The transient was detected with g=17.4 mag, and is rising, with a blue color (g-r ~ -0.3 mag). A classification spectrum was taken with the robotic SED Machine (spectral range 350-950 nm, spectral resolution R=100) on the Palomar 60-in telescope on UT 30 August 2016, which detected a blue continuum, and a strong, broad He II 4686 emission line, which together with its quiescent host galaxy, are consistent with a tidal disruption event (TDE). Spectroscopic monitoring is also being conducted with the LCOGT. Swift and VLA observations have been triggered. Further follow-up observations are encouraged for what may be the closest TDE ever discovered at a distance of only ~65 Mpc. The co-ordinates are: iPTF16fnl 00:29:57.04 +32:53:37.5 (J2000)

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