20–27 Mar 2026
Wild View Resorts
Africa/Gaborone timezone

Multiwavelength studies of X-ray binaries

25 Mar 2026, 11:30
15m
Wild View Resorts

Wild View Resorts

Plot 80 President Avenue, Kasane, Botswana
In-person - Talk 5 Transients, Compact Objects Science & Engineering

Speaker

Itumeleng Monageng (University of Cape Town/South African Astronomical Observatory)

Description

Massive X-ray binaries are intriguing astrophysical systems that provide valuable insights into some of the most extreme physical processes in the universe. These binary systems offer a unique opportunity to study the end products of stellar evolution, specifically neutron stars and black holes. As precursors to gravitational waves and short gamma-ray bursts, massive X-ray binaries are essential for understanding a crucial stage of binary stellar evolution, helping us grasp the pathways leading to some of the most exotic and extreme astrophysical objects.

In this overview, I will discuss multiwavelength studies of massive X-ray binaries, highlighting some significant recent findings. The primary focus will be on the largest subclass of these systems, known as Be X-ray binaries. The complex interactions between the Be star’s disc and the neutron star in these systems pose intriguing research challenges. Additionally, I will provide an overview of a related class of binary systems called gamma-ray binaries, where many mysteries revolve around the unknown nature of the compact objects involved.

Stream Science or Engineering

Primary author

Itumeleng Monageng (University of Cape Town/South African Astronomical Observatory)

Presentation materials

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