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The Orbital Period of the Be/Neutron Star Binary RX J0812.4-3114
The Astrophysical Journal
|January 21, 2000
Summary
The Rossi X-Ray Timing Explorer (RXTE) observed the RX J0812.4-3114 system, revealing regular 80-day outbursts. These outbursts, linked to the system's orbital period, indicate a transition to an active state in 1998.
Area of Science:
- X-ray astronomy
- Stellar astrophysics
- Binary systems
Background:
- The Be star X-ray binary system RX J0812.4-3114 exhibits complex variability.
- Previous observations suggested a transition in its activity state.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze Rossi X-Ray Timing Explorer (RXTE) data for RX J0812.4-3114.
- To characterize the outburst behavior and pulsation period of the system.
Main Methods:
- Utilized RXTE All-Sky Monitor (ASM) for light curve analysis.
- Conducted RXTE Proportional Counter Array (PCA) observations for pulsation detection.
Main Results:
- Identified regular outbursts occurring at approximately 80-day intervals.
- Detected strong pulsations with a period of 31.88 seconds using PCA.
- Confirmed a transition to a regular outburst state in early 1998.
Conclusions:
- Interpreted the 80-day periodicity as the orbital period of RX J0812.4-3114.
- Concluded that outbursts likely occur around periastron passage.