New Optical and X-ray Constraints on the Ultraluminous X-ray source Circinus Galaxy X-2: A Missed Local SN?
Abstract
CGX-2 was identified as a ULX and young SN in the Circinus Galaxy based on Chandra and HST observations in 1999/2000. Surprisingly, prior optical monitoring failed to detect any recent SN within the Circinus Galaxy; thus CGX2 might have important implications for currently adopted local SN rates. We recently obtained a VLT spectrum of the optical counterpart to CGX2 to confirm its nature and will present its optical identification. CGX2 has also been observed with Chandra several times now spanning a 5 yr period and we will present the first X-ray investigation of its temporal and spectral evolution.
F.E.B gratefully acknowledges the support provided by NASA through Chandra Postdoctoral Fellowship grant PF4-50032 awarded by the Chandra X-ray Center, which is operated by the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory for NASA under contract NAS8-03060.- Publication:
-
AAS/High Energy Astrophysics Division #9
- Pub Date:
- September 2006
- Bibcode:
- 2006HEAD....9.1341B