NASA · Space

NASA's Chandra Discovers New Class of X-ray Objects

Scientists using NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory have identified a new category of celestial objects exhibiting unusual low-energy X-ray and intense ultraviolet radiation. These 'hypersoft X-ray sources' could help resolve two major astrophysical puzzles.

Researchers found 84 such objects across six galaxies, including spiral galaxies M31 and M101. These sources emit low-energy X-rays and significant ultraviolet radiation.

The nature of these objects is unclear, but they may involve binary systems accreting material. The observed emissions are unprecedented for such systems.

This discovery suggests a large, previously undetected population of energetic binary systems.

These sources might explain the origin of Type Ia supernovae, crucial for measuring cosmic expansion.

The intense ultraviolet radiation may also account for the stripping of electrons from inter-stellar gas, influencing star formation.

Previously, these objects were hard to detect due to low-energy X-ray output and UV absorption by gas.

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