A second look for variability in the exceptional Swift J123205.1-1056
Abstract
Swift J123205.1-1056 is a short, soft outburst detected by Swift. In the error box is an AGN at z=0.134. CXO observations reveal a second X-ray source on the stellar field of this AGN. If associated (the probability of chance alignment is low) it has L_X 1e43 ergs/s. This luminosity suggests either an "afterglow"-like event, or if persistent a hyperluminous, non-nuclear X-ray source. In the former case it is possible given the softness of the burst that we may be observing a tidal flare-like event, in which case a WD-IMBH disruption within a globular cluster in the galaxy is possible (this is a luminous galaxy that may contain a high specific frequency of globular clusters, but has little/no star formation). A repeat of the earlier CXO observations will allow us to assess variability in the source. Strong variability would point to a transient event, most likely related to the gamma-rays. No variability would imply a persistent HLX, but would still be of considerable interest.
- Publication:
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Chandra Proposal
- Pub Date:
- September 2014
- Bibcode:
- 2014cxo..prop.4566L