The gamma-ray binary 1FGL J1018.6-5856
Abstract
Fermi-LAT observations of the bright gamma-ray source 1FGL J1018.6-5856 unveiled a 16.6 day periodicity in flux and spectral shape. The X-ray counterpart is a bright source, displaying a large flux and spectral modulation along the 16.6 day cycle. The optical counterpart is an early-type O6V star. 1FGL J1018.6-5856 is the last entry in the class of gamma-ray binaries. Although distance estimates are uncertain, it is likely one of the most luminous gamma-ray sources in the Galaxy. Recent observations show a peculiar long-term evolution of the multiwavelength phenomenology. Detailed time-resolved spectroscopy as well as a sensitive search for pulsations will shed light on the physics of such a powerful, enigmatic particle accelerator.
- Publication:
-
XMM-Newton Proposal
- Pub Date:
- October 2012
- Bibcode:
- 2012xmm..prop..135D
- Keywords:
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- White Dwarf Binaries;
- Neutron Star Binaries;
- Cataclysmic Variables;
- ULXs;
- Black Holes;
- 1FGL J1018.6-58