Search for Low Mass X-ray binries in the Magellanic Clouds
Abstract
The Magellanic Clouds are our nearest galactic neighbours. The proximity of the Clouds allows us to probe their content and structure more deeply than other nearby galaxies. Their extragalactic nature also circumvents the problems of distance determination encountered within our own Galaxy. In addition, the low metallicity of the SMC means that this galaxy has similar conditions to the early Universe.The SKA precursor telescopes, MeerKAT and ASKAP, will allow us to survey the Magellanic Clouds rapidly and in great detail. One of most exciting areas of discovery this opens up is the search for low mass X-ray binaries (LMXBs). Currently, there is only one knkown LXMB in the Large magellanic CLoud and none in the Small Magellanic Cloud.LMXBs occupy a demonstrably different parameter space in terms of flux ratios to other sources, like background AGN and high mass X-ray binaries. By combining deep MeerKAT and ASKAP data with existing X-ray, optical, infrared and UV data we will be able to identify LMXBs in the Magellanic Clouds by their optical, X-ray and radio flux ratios. The radio data will also form a legacy product that will be of use in studies of galactic magnetism, supernova remnants , planetary nebulae and the interstellar medium of the Magellanic Clouds.
- Publication:
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AAS/High Energy Astrophysics Division
- Pub Date:
- March 2019
- Bibcode:
- 2019HEAD...1711209J