A conclusive non-detection of magnetic field in the Am star o Peg with high-precision near-infrared spectroscopy

Abstract

Context. The A-type metallic-line (Am) stars are typically considered to be non-magnetic or to possess very weak sub-G magnetic fields. This view has been repeatedly challenged in the literature; most commonly for the bright hot Am star o Peg. Several studies claim to have detected 1–2 kG field of unknown topology in this object, possibly indicating a new process of magnetic-field generation in intermediate-mass stars. Aims. In this study, we revisit the evidence of a strong magnetic field in o Peg using new high-resolution spectropolarimetric observations and advanced spectral fitting techniques. Methods. We estimated the mean magnetic field strength in o Peg from the high-precision CRyogenic InfraRed Echelle Spectrograph (CRIRES+) measurement of near-infrared (NIR) sulphur lines. We modelled this observation with a polarised radiative transfer code, including treatment of the departures from local thermodynamic equilibrium. In addition, we used the least-squares deconvolution multi-line technique to derive longitudinal field measurements from archival optical spectropolarimetric observations of this star. Results. Our analysis of the NIR S I lines reveals no evidence of Zeeman broadening, ruling out magnetic field with a strength exceeding 260 G. This null result is compatible with the relative intensification of Fe II lines in the optical spectrum, taking into account blending and uncertain atomic parameters of the relevant diagnostic transitions. Longitudinal field measurements on three different nights also yield null results with a precision of 2 G. Conclusions. This study refutes the claims of kG-strength dipolar or tangled magnetic field in o Peg. This star therefore appears to be non-magnetic, with surface magnetic field characteristics no different from those of other Am stars.