1996A&A...315..243R

We have studied the kinematics of the galactic supernova remnants (SNRs) RCW 86, MSH 15-56 and MSH 11-61A as the first step of a long term project of determination of kinematic distances to galactic SNRs with optical counterparts. We have obtained the kinematic distances to these nebulae. Our results on RCW 86 imply a real association between this SNR and a neighboring OB stellar association, confirming that this SNR, which is now in the Sedov phase, is probably the result of an explosion of a Type II supernova. Furthermore, we argue against the identification of RCW 86 with the historical supernova AD185. We have detected an almost complete shell of optical filaments associated with the SNR MSH 15-56. The large diameter derived from its kinematic distance suggests that this SNR is in the radiative phase of evolution. Finally, we estimate that the SNR MSH 11-61A is located at about 7kpc from the Sun in a zone where several background and foreground nebulae at different velocities are seen in projection. Its linear diameter is 31pc, about twice the value given by previous determinations.