Observation of R-band variability of L dwarfs

Abstract

We report, for the first time, photometric variability of L dwarfs in the R band. Out of three L1 dwarfs (2MASS 1300+19, 2MASS 1439+19, and 2MASS 1658+70) observed, we have detected R-band variability in 2MASS 1300+19 and 2MASS 1439+19. The objects exhibit variability of amplitude ranging from 0.01 to 0.02 mag. Object 2MASS 1658+70 turns out to be nonvariable in both the R and I bands. However, more observations are needed to infer its variability. No periodic behavior in the variability is found from the two L1 dwarfs that are variable. All three L1 dwarfs have either negligible or no Hα activity. In the absence of any direct evidence for the presence of a sufficiently strong magnetic field, the detection of polarization at the optical favors the presence of dust in the atmosphere of L dwarfs. We suggest that the observed R-band photometric variability is most likely due to atmospheric dust activity.