A theoretical scenario for Galactic RR Lyrae in the Gaia data base: constraints on the parallax offset

On the basis of an extended set of non-linear convective RR Lyrae pulsation models we derive the first theoretical light curves in the Gaia bands G, G(BP), and G(RP) and the corresponding intensity-weighted mean magnitudes and pulsation amplitudes. The effects of chemical composition on the derived Bailey diagrams in the Gaia filters are discussed for both Fundamental and first overtone mode pulsators. The inferred mean magnitudes and colours are used to derive the first theoretical Period-Wesenheit relations for RR Lyrae in the Gaia filters. The application of the theoretical Period-Wesenheit relations for both the Fundamental and first overtone mode to Galactic RR Lyrae in the Gaia Data Release 2 data base and complementary information on individual metal abundances allows us to derive theoretical estimates of their individual parallaxes. These results are compared with the astrometric solutions to conclude that a very small offset, consistent with zero, is required in order to reconcile the predicted distances with Gaia results.

Automated summary

Theoretical light curves in Gaia bands G, G(BP), and G(RP) for RR Lyrae pulsators are derived based on extended non-linear convective models. The effects of chemical composition on the derived parameters and Period-Wesenheit relations are discussed, and theoretical estimates of individual parallaxes for Galactic RR Lyrae in Gaia Data Release 2 are compared with astrometric solutions. A very small offset, consistent with zero, is required to reconcile the predicted distances with Gaia results.