Abstract
We present here, for the first time, an optical and near-infrared (NIR) identification for the previously unstudied IRAS PSC source 18476+2054. Direct imaging in BVRICiJKs and optical spectroscopy were obtained. The optical counterpart is identified as a variable star of Mira class--M7 or later giant or supergiant--with a mid infrared excess compared to ``normal'' Miras having such a short period. The (V-IC) is remarkably high, although the (B-V) gives no indication for circumstellar extinction driving a reddening. The V-[12] color shows a mid-infrared excess. The photometries obtained here and the sky survey plates allow us to estimate a period of 145 days and an unusually low amplitude for such a late spectroscopic type of ΔV = 2m.5+/-0m.2.
