Title:
AstroSat study of the 2023 outburst of an X-ray binary in the globular cluster Terzan 5
Agreement Number:
23EXPAST02
Agreement Value:
$19,402.00
Agreement Date:
Mar 20, 2024 - Mar 31, 2025
Description:
In March 2023, a neutron star (a dense stellar corpse) brightened by a factor of 10,000 in the X-rays, as it consumed material torn from a small companion star. This neutron star is located in the globular cluster Terzan 5, a cluster of about a million old stars that is rich in neutron stars. AstroSat observed the X-rays from this neutron star with its three X-ray instruments. We will study the AstroSat data, along with data from other X-ray instruments, to search for pulsations at the neutron star spin period; to look for evidence of gas blocking our view of the neutron star; and to study light reflected from the material falling onto the neutron star. We hope to infer the spin of the neutron star, the orbital period of the neutron star and its companion star, and how the infalling material falls onto the neutron star. This study can help us understand the physics of neutron stars, and of how they suck mass from companion stars and consume it.
Organization:
Canadian Space Agency
Expected Results:
The Research component of the program provides financial support to organizations to conduct space related research
and development in priority areas. It will support targeted knowledge development and innovation to sustain and enhance the Canadian capacity to use space to address national needs and priorities in the future.
Location:
Edmonton, Alberta, CA T6G 2M7
Reference Number:
003-2023-2024-Q4-00029
Report Type:
Grants and Contributions
Recipient's Legal Name:
The Governors of the University of Alberta
Program:
Class Grant and Contribution Program to Support Research, Awareness and Learning in Space Science and Technology
Program Purpose:
This program supports knowledge development and innovation in the CSA's priority areas while increasing the awareness and participation of Canadians in space-related disciplines and activities.
The Research Component aims to support the development of science and technology; foster the continual development of a critical mass of researchers and highly qualified people in Canada; and support information gathering and space-related studies and research pertaining to Canadian Space Agency priorities.