Magnetic fields around evolved stars

Journal article, 2018

There has long been evidence of magnetic fields in the extended envelopes of asymptotic giant branch (AGB) and red supergiant (RSG) stars. These stars are important contributors to the enrichment of the interstellar medium by dust and heavy elements. Magnetic fields might play a role in the mass loss process responsible. Additionally, magnetic fields, typically in combination with binary companions, have often be suggested to be involved in shaping strongly a-spherical planetary nebulae (PNe). New telescopes and instruments are increasing our knowledge about magnetic fields around these evolved, mass losing, stars and their descendants.