A FLARING X-RAY SOURCE WITH AN H{alpha}-BRIGHT COUNTERPART TOWARD THE SMALL MAGELLANIC CLOUD
- Gemini Observatory, 670 N. A'ohoku Pl. Hilo, HI 96720 (United States)
We report the discovery of a flaring X-ray source with an optical counterpart with H{alpha} emission and red-excess, in the direction of the Small Magellanic Cloud. A 100 ks X-ray observation with Chandra detected a flare lasting {approx}6 ks in the source CXO J005428.9-723107. The X-ray spectrum during the flare was consistent with a thermal plasma of temperature kT = 2.4 {+-} 0.4 keV. In quiescence following the flare the spectrum was softer (kT {approx} 0.4 keV). Timing analysis did not reveal any significant periodicities or quasi-periodic oscillations. Optical images taken with the Magellan-Baade 6.5 m telescope show a single star in the (0.''9) error circle. This star has apparent magnitude V = 19.17, exhibits enhanced H{alpha} emission (H{alpha} - r = -0.88 {+-} 0.02), and has a large proper motion. Alternative explanations are explored, leading to identification as a relatively nearby (Galactic) coronally active binary star of the BY Draconis class.
- OSTI ID:
- 21313711
- Journal Information:
- Astrophysical Journal, Vol. 701, Issue 1; Other Information: DOI: 10.1088/0004-637X/701/1/12; Country of input: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA); ISSN 0004-637X
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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