A Search for Variable ROSAT X-ray Sources
Abstract
We have discovered numerous X-ray bursts, most of which are previously unknown, through a detailed analysis of a dozen deep ROSAT observations (>20 ksec). A statistical analysis of the observed count rates for all the sources within each ROSAT field of view as well as the background regions was performed to search for statistically significant variability on time scales from a few seconds to tens of minutes. Optical counterpart candidates to the burst sources have been found in several cases, though more detailed optical studies continue to be pursued. We report on the dozen bursting sources detected to date, as well as the automated analysis algorithm for source detection and temporal analysis. In addition, we discuss several systematic timing effects present in some of the ROSAT observations, e.g., 2 sec quasi-periodic oscillations due to spacecraft clock errors.
- Publication:
-
American Astronomical Society Meeting Abstracts
- Pub Date:
- December 1993
- Bibcode:
- 1993AAS...183.5512A