New R Coronae Borealis and DY Persei Candidates in the SMC

Abstract

We report 3 new R Coronae Borealis and 63 new DY Persei candidates in the Small Magellanic Cloud. Our analysis, based on data published by the OGLE team, consisted in a search for the characteristic drops in brightness that define these classes. All candidates had been previously classified as semi-regular or Mira variables. We briefly remark upon the possible existence of a "borderline" DY Per-like star and a "transitional" DY Per/RCB star. Follow-up observations are needed to conclusively establish the nature of our candidates.