The IXPE space observatory at a test facility (Image source: Ball Aerospace; cropped)
A team of astronomers used NASA’s IXPE to measure X-rays from black hole IGR J17091-3624, also known as the Heartbeat Black Hole. The results challenge what we currently know about black holes and their interaction with their surroundings.
Back in April, astronomers used NASA’s Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE) to study the Heartbeat Black Hole. The measurements showed a polarization degree of 9.1%, a figure much higher than was expected. The result suggests highly aligned X-ray vibrations coming from the black hole.
The corona is an extremely hot X-ray-emitting region close to the center of a black hole and near the innermost part of the accretion disk. The accretion disk is a flattened, rotating structure usually made up of matter drawn from nearby stars.
A polarization degree as high as 9.1% suggests the black hole’s corona is perfectly shaped and viewed from an edge-on angle, but the scientists were not able to directly measure the viewing angle as the stellar companion was too dim.
In order to explain this oddity, the astronomers proposed a model that included a wind of matter blown away from the accretion disk. In this case, the X-rays emitted by the corona pass through the wind, undergoes Compton scattering, and become more aligned.
Another model suggested the plasma in the corona might be pushing outward at speeds up to 20% the speed of light. In this case, relativistic effects could make the polarization appear higher. Future studies will explore other models to try to explain this mystery, understanding it will help improve the current understanding of astronomy.
Chibuike Okpara – Tech Writer – 117 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2024
I have always been fascinated by technology and digital devices my entire life and even got addicted to it. I have always marveled at the intricacy of even the simplest digital devices and systems around us. I have been writing and publishing articles online for about 6 years now, just about a year ago, I found myself lost in the marvel of smartphones and laptops we have in our hands every day. I developed a passion for learning about new devices and technologies that come with them and at some point, I asked myself, “Why not get into writing tech articles?” It is useless to say I followed up the idea — it is evident. I am an open-minded individual who derives an infinite amount of joy from researching and discovering new information, I believe there is so much to learn and such a short life to live, so I put my time to good use — learning new things. I am a ‘bookworm’ of the internet and digital devices. When I am not writing, you will find me on my devices still, I do explore and admire the beauty of nature and creatures. I am a fast learner and quickly adapt to changes, always looking forward to new adventures.