5 min read NASA’s NICER Maps Debris From Recurring Cosmic Crashes Lee esta nota de prensa en español aquí. For the first time, astronomers have probed the physical environment of repeating X-ray outbursts near monster black holes thanks to data from NASA’s NICER (Neutron star Interior Composition Explorer) and other missions. Scientists have only recently encountered this class of X-ray flares, called QPEs, or quasi-periodic eruptions. A system astronomers have nicknamed Ansky is the eighth QPE source discovered, and it produces the most energetic outbursts seen to date. Ansky also…
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NASA Launches New X-ray Explorer
The Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer will shed new light on energetic and enigmatic sources such as magnetars, supernovae, and black holes. The post NASA Launches New X-ray Explorer appeared first on Sky & Telescope.
Read MoreDid We Find a Planet in Another Galaxy?
Astronomers using an innovative method have detected the signal of what could be an extragalactic exoplanet. But confirming its existence will be difficult. The post Did We Find a Planet in Another Galaxy? appeared first on Sky & Telescope.
Read MoreWhat — and Where — Is the North Polar Spur?
Astronomers make the case that a gigantic ridge of gas sticking out of the galactic plane was blown out by a cluster of nearby supernovae. The post What — and Where — Is the North Polar Spur? appeared first on Sky & Telescope.
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