China’s Einstein probe has detected mysterious “fireworks” in space

The Einstein Probe (EP) space telescope, launched into space in January by China, has identified a transient celestial object showing firework-like flickering, suggesting a potential new type of astronomical phenomenon.

The newly discovered transient object exhibits spectral and temporal characteristics that do not match any known types, which could lead to important information about the universe and extreme physical processes.

According to ScienceNet, a media outlet affiliated with the Chinese Academy of Sciences, these fleeting cosmic “fireworks” could provide key information about the formation and evolution of celestial bodies, making them important in the study of extreme cosmic phenomena.

The newly discovered transient shows a dramatic X-ray burst

The transient event, identified as EP240408a, was detected by EP satellite April 8. It recorded a powerful X-ray burst that brightened 300 times and lasted just 12 seconds before fading out. X-ray emissions from this source disappeared about 10 days later.

According to Yuan Weimin, principal investigator of the EP mission and a researcher at the CAS National Astronomical Observatories, the event poses a challenge for detection by other X-ray and multi-wavelength telescopes.

“This discovery suggests that our previous understanding of transient celestial phenomena may be just the tip of the iceberg” – Chinese scientist he said.

The EP satellite, launched in January, is equipped with advanced X-ray technology detection technology, including two instruments: a Wide Field X-ray Telescope (WXT) and a Complementary X-ray Telescope. Inspired by the eyes of a lobster, WXT is designed for simultaneous wide field of view observation and focused X-ray imaging.

Since its inception, the PE satellite has identified 60 confirmed transient events and many other potential candidates. These include stars, white dwarfs, neutron stars, black holes, supernovae and gamma-ray bursts. Additionally, in September, the satellite took X-ray images of the Moon.

New discovery of gamma-ray bursts sheds light on the formation of black holes

The satellite also detected a gamma-ray burst, designated EP240315a, located about 25.6 billion light-years away. The discovery demonstrates the satellite’s ability to identify gamma-ray bursts from the distant early Universe, offering new insight into the physical processes of stellar collapse that lead to the formation of black holes and the creation of relativistic jets, Yuan says.

For Paul O’Brien, head of astrophysics at the University of Leicester’s School of Physics and Astronomy, the EP satellite proved the importance of monitoring the wide-angle X-ray sky.

“Research and opportunities for follow-up have led to the discovery of many new X-ray transients and regular monitoring of known sources. EP’s findings show that this is already having a huge impact on science.” O’Brien noted.

The satellite was also named “Tianguan”, after the ancient Chinese observation of the supernova SN1054 in 1054. This event, recorded during the Song Dynasty (960-1279), is an early contribution to our understanding of the universe.

The supernova was located in the “Tianguan” region of the ancient constellation system and was called “Tianguan guest star”. Ancient Chinese astronomers used a “guest star” to describe bright, transient events visible to the naked eye. The supernova remnant later became the Crab Nebula.