MAXI and XRISM probe neutron-star surroundings through X-ray line shapes
Release: October 26. Brightening was detected in January; XRISM observed February 7. This is not a new brightening alert for October 26.
IllustrationAn October 26 university release describes evidence consistent with matter orbiting near a neutron star's magnetospheric edge. This is spectroscopy-based inference, not a direct picture.
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Release: October 26. Brightening was detected in January; XRISM observed February 7. This is not a new brightening alert for October 26.
From monitoring to detailed observation
The team studied X-ray binary 1A 1118-61. MAXI followed its brightening and informed a rapid XRISM observation. Resolve's precise spectroscopy separated components in the X-ray emission lines of iron.
A clue, with further tests ahead
Part of the line width matched predictions for material orbiting near the edge of the magnetic-field-dominated region. The team treats this as a first step supporting that possible source. Observations at different brightness levels are needed. The orbit was not settled by a sharp photograph; models and measured spectra are being compared.
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