1782 Mira variables candidates with VVV survey

However, our sample follows a well-defined selection function as expected from artificial star tests. The multiband photometry is modelled using stellar models with circumstellar dust that characterize the mass-loss rates. We demonstrate how ~>90 per cent of our sample is consistent with O-rich chemistry.

Comparison to period-luminosity relations demonstrates that the bulk of the short period stars are situated at the Galactic Centre distance. Many of the longer period variables are very dusty, falling significantly under the O-rich Magellanic Cloud and solar neighbourhood period-luminosity relations and exhibit high mass-loss rates of ~2.5*10^-5^M_{sun}_yr^-1^. The period distribution appears consistent with the nuclear stellar disc forming ~> 8 Gyr ago, although it is not possible to disentangle the relative contributions of the nuclear stellar disc and the contaminating bulge.