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Periodic X-ray outbursts from A0535+26, 2S1145-619 and GX301-2

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Abstract

We report Ariel V(SSI) observations of three X-ray pulsars A0535+26, 2S1145-619 and GX301-2 (2S1223-624). These sources exhibit X-ray outbursts which appear, on the basis of observations extending over ∼ 5 years, to have recurrence periods of 110 days, 187.5 days and 41.4 days respectively. If these periods are orbital in origin, the observed X-ray modulation may be explained in terms of an appreciable orbital eccentricity giving rise to time variable accretion. (In the case of GX301-2 published pulse timing data already provide independent evidence for a 41.4 day orbital period and an eccentricity e ≈ 0.4). The optical counterparts are all early-type stars; A0535+26 and 2S1145-619 are identified with Be main sequence stars and GX301-2 with a B2 supergiant which also shows an emission line spectrum. The implications of the observations in relation to possible mass transfer mechanisms in such systems are discussed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. X-ray Astronomy Group, University of Leicester, England

    R. S. Warwick, M. G. Watson & M. R. Sims

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  1. R. S. Warwick
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  2. M. G. Watson
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  3. M. R. Sims
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Warwick, R.S., Watson, M.G. & Sims, M.R. Periodic X-ray outbursts from A0535+26, 2S1145-619 and GX301-2. Space Sci Rev 30, 461–466 (1981). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01246065

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