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[39.02] Challenges for X-ray Timing / Spectral Investigations of Black Hole Binaries in Outburst

R. A. Remillard (M.I.T.)

Techniques and current limitations for gaining constraints on the mass and spin of stellar scale black holes in accreting binary systems are summarized. These efforts include the interpretations of X-ray spectra and the properties of X-ray QPOs. Further progress is dependent on efforts to resolve our current uncertainties related to accretion geometry for the various X-ray spectral states of black hole binaries. These investigations require regular monitoring and high-throughput instrumentation with significant bandwidth.