Soft X-ray observations of Centaurus X-3 from Copernicus.
Abstract
We have detected soft X-ray emission from Centaurus X-3 in the 0.6-1.9 keV band, using the focusing telescope aboard OAO Copernicus. The flux is compatible with an extrapolation of the harder X-ray spectrum, attenuated by (3-4) times 10 to the 22nd atoms per sq cm of interstellar and/or circumstellar matter. The data are consistent with the distance estimate of 5-10 kpc derived from the spectroscopic modulus of the optical component, and obviate the need to postulate the primary to be an anomalously subluminous hot star. There is currently no compelling evidence that such models must be invoked to explain any of the observed compact X-ray sources.
- Publication:
-
The Astrophysical Journal
- Pub Date:
- March 1975
- DOI:
- 10.1086/181742
- Bibcode:
- 1975ApJ...196L..51M
- Keywords:
-
- Binary Stars;
- Pulsars;
- Spaceborne Astronomy;
- Stellar Radiation;
- X Ray Astronomy;
- X Ray Stars;
- Doppler Effect;
- Interstellar Extinction;
- Oao 3;
- Radiant Flux Density;
- Stellar Luminosity;
- Space Radiation