D. E. Calvelo, R. P. Fender, A. K. Tzioumis, J. W. Broderick
We present results from the first successful millimetre (combined 33 GHz and
35 GHz) observations of the neutron star X-ray binary Circinus X-1, using the
Australia Telescope Compact Array. The source was clearly detected in all three
observing epochs. We see strong evidence for a periastron flare beginning at
MJD 55519.9 \pm 0.04 with estimated peak flux densities of up to 50 mJy and
which proceeds to decline over the following four days. We directly resolve jet
structures on sub-arcsecond scales. Flux density variability and distance from
the core of nearby components suggests recent shock re-energisation, though we
are unable to directly connect this with the observed flare. We suggest that,
if the emission is powered by an unseen outflow, then a phase delay exists
between flare onset and subsequent brightening of nearby components, with flows
reaching mildly relativistic velocities. Given resolved structure positions, in
comparison to past observations of Cir X-1, we find evidence that jet direction
may vary with distance from the core, or the source's precession parameters
have changed.
View original:
http://arxiv.org/abs/1110.3997
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