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S. DeDeo (Princeton University), D. Psaltis (University of Arizona, Tuscon)
We report recent advances in applying progress in X-ray observations of quasi-periodic oscillations -- and other compact object phenomena -- to direct tests of General Relativity in the strong-field regime.
The frequencies of QPOs around neutron stars are believed to be related to characteristic frequencies in the gravitational fields of the compact objects. In different variability models, these include the Keplerian, epicyclic, and Lense-Thirring frequencies, which depend mostly on the properties of the stellar spacetimes.
We argue that quasi-periodic oscillations in the X-ray flux of neutron stars can be used to map the external spacetimes of the compact objects and, therefore, lead to direct tests of GR in the strong-field regime. In particular, we show how particular extensions of GR can be constrained by current observations.
Finally, we discuss more generally the future prospects for testing GR using compact objects.
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Bulletin of the American Astronomical Society, 36 #3
© 2004. The American Astronomical Soceity.