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The optical polarization of X-ray binaries

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Abstract

Polarimetric observations of close binaries may reveal the presence of a black-hole secondary. The Einstein photometric effect will introduce a characteristic, time-varying signature upon the interstellar polarization. For several reasons, it is concluded that the short time-scale variability in the polarization in HDE 226868 is caused by Rayleigh scattering from gas streams known to exist in the system. X Persei may have a variable polarization consistent with the predicted effect.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Laboratory for Solar Physics and Astrophysics, NASA-Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Maryland, USA

    Joseph F. Dolan (NAS/NRC Senior Resident Research Associate, Visiting Astronomer at Kitt Peak National Observatory which is operated by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy Inc., under contract with the National Science Foundation)

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  1. Joseph F. Dolan
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Dolan, J.F. The optical polarization of X-ray binaries. Astrophys Space Sci 52, 201–211 (1977). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00647164

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00647164

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