X-ray binaries are a fascinating celestial phenomenon, consisting of a normal star or a white dwarf transferring mass onto a compact neutron star or a black hole. Astronomers categorize them into low-mass X-ray binaries (LMXBs) and high-mass X-ray binaries (HMXBs) based on the mass of the companion star.
One of the most intriguing subgroups of HMXBs is Be/X-ray binaries (BeXRBs), which are primarily composed of Be stars and neutron stars, often pulsars. These systems are known for their weak persistent X-ray emission, occasionally interrupted by outbursts lasting several weeks.
A recent discovery by a team of astronomers led by Thomas M. Gaudin of the Pennsylvania State University (PSU) has unveiled a new BeXRB, designated as Swift J010902.6-723710. This discovery was made during S-CUBED monitoring observations aimed at detecting X-ray outbursts.
The researchers reported, “This paper presents the detection of a previously unknown BeXRB through weekly observations of the SCUBED survey. This new system, Swift J010902.6-723710, was identified through a transient X-ray outburst and further investigated through multi-wavelength observations.”
2024-03-21 00:00:04
Article from phys.org