Linear polarization of the white-dwarf binary BD + 160516

The eclipsing white-dwarf binary BD + 160516 has been found to have a small but finite linear polarization, p approximately equal to 0.15 percent, theta approximately equal to 500, as averaged over orbital phase and wavelength. While this is probably interstellar, there is also marginal evidence for a component in the ultraviolet which varies with phase. Further work is needed. (U.S.)