[Previous] | [Session 15] | [Next]

[15.02] KiloHertz QPOs and the Marginally Stable Orbit

Philip Kaaret (Harvard-Smithsonian CfA)

The discovery of millisecond quasi-periodic oscillations (QPOs) from neutron-star x-ray binaries has opened a new window for the study of accretion flows in strong gravitational fields. Recently, QPO observations of 4U1820-30 have been interpreted as evidence for the existence of the marginally stable orbit, a key prediction of general relativity. I present new data on 4U1820-30 and on the relation between kHz QPOs, x-ray spectra, and low-frequency timing noise. I examine the claims for and against detection of the marginally stable orbit.

If the author provided an email address or URL for general inquiries, it is as follows:

pkaaret@cfa.harvard.edu