Abstract
Gamma-ray binaries are stellar systems containing a neutron star or black hole, with gamma-ray emission produced by an interaction between the components. These systems are rare, even though binary evolution models predict dozens in our Galaxy. A search for gamma-ray binaries with the Fermi Large Area Telescope (LAT) shows that 1FGL J1018.6-5856 exhibits intensity and spectral modulation with a 16.6-day period. We identified a variable x-ray counterpart, which shows a sharp maximum coinciding with maximum gamma-ray emission, as well as an O6V((f)) star optical counterpart and a radio counterpart that is also apparently modulated on the orbital period. 1FGL J1018.6-5856 is thus a gamma-ray binary, and its detection suggests the presence of other fainter binaries in the Galaxy.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 189-193 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | Science |
Volume | 335 |
Issue number | 6065 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2012 |
Keywords
- gamma rays
- gamma-ray binaries
- numerical analysis
- photons
- telescope