The Einstein Probe (EP) space telescope, which was sent into space by China in January, has identified a passing celestial body exhibiting flickering behavior similar to fireworks, indicating a possible new type of astronomical phenomenon.
The newly discovered transient object exhibits spectral and temporal features that match no known type, which could lead to important insights into the universe and extreme physical processes.
These fleeting cosmic “fireworks” could provide crucial information about how celestial bodies form and evolve, making them important for studying extreme cosmic phenomena, according to ScienceNet, a media outlet affiliated with the Chinese Academy of Sciences.
Newly discovered transient event shows dramatic X-ray emission
The transient event, designated EP240408a, was detected by the EP satellite on April 8. It recorded a powerful X-ray flare that grew 300 times brighter and lasted just 12 seconds before disappearing. The X-rays from this source disappeared about ten days later.
According to Yuan Weimin, principal investigator of the EP mission and researcher at the National Astronomical Observatories or CAS, this event is challenging for other X-ray and multi-wavelength telescopes to detect.
“This finding suggests that our previous understanding of transient celestial phenomena could be just the tip of the iceberg,” the Chinese scientist said.
Launched in January, the EP satellite features advanced X-ray detection technology, including two instruments: a Wide-field X-ray Telescope (WXT) and a Follow-up X-ray Telescope. Inspired by the eyes of lobsters, the WXT is designed for simultaneous wide-field observation and focused X-ray imaging.
Since beginning its operations, the EP satellite has identified 60 confirmed transient events, along with many other potential candidates. These include stars, white dwarfs, neutron stars, black holes, supernovae and gamma-ray bursts. In addition, the satellite took X-rays of the moon in September.
New discovery of gamma-ray bursts sheds light on the formation of black holes
The satellite also detected a gamma-ray burst, dubbed EP240315a, at a distance of about 25.6 billion light-years. This finding demonstrates the satellite’s ability to identify gamma-ray bursts from the distant early universe, which Yuan says provides new insights into the physical processes of star collapse that lead to the formation of black holes and the creation of relativistic jets .
For Paul O’Brien, head of astrophysics at the University of Leicester’s School of Physics and Astronomy, the EP satellite has proven the importance of wide-field monitoring of the X-ray sky.
“The research and follow-up capabilities have allowed the discovery of numerous new X-ray transients and the regular monitoring of known sources. EP’s discoveries show that it is already having a major effect on science.” O’Brien noted.
The satellite is also called ‘Tianguan’, in honor of the ancient Chinese sighting of supernova SN1054 in 1054 AD. This event, recorded during the Song Dynasty (960-1279), represents an early contribution to our understanding of the universe.
The supernova was located in the “Tianguan” region of the ancient constellation and was called the “Tianguan host star”. Ancient Chinese astronomers used “guest star” to describe bright transient events visible to the naked eye. The remnants of the supernova later became the Crab Nebula.
