Work

Prospects for observing the microquasar SS 433 with the LACT array

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT We investigate the observational capabilities of the upcoming Large Array of imaging atmospheric Cherenkov Telescopes (LACT) for the microquasar SS 433 through detailed simulations. Our results indicate that a detection significance of $5\sigma$ can be achieved with approximately 30 h of observation. This exposure, coupled with LACT’s excellent angular resolution, enables the spatial separation of the eastern and western jets. Furthermore, based on the Large High Altitude Air Shower Observatory (LHAASO) spectral and morphological findings, the array is expected to distinguish the central hadronic component after roughly 100 h of observation. We also examine its ability to differentiate between the High Energy Stereoscopic System and LHAASO spectral models. These findings demonstrate LACT’s strong potential to eventually provide critical insights into particle acceleration in PeVatrons and the radiation mechanisms of microquasars.

Source: Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society

DOI: 10.1093/mnras/stag589

Authors: Zhen Xie, Zhipeng Zhang, Ruizhi Yang

Institution: University of Science and Technology of China

Language: English

Topic: Astrophysics and Cosmic Phenomena

Subfield: Nuclear and High Energy Physics

Field: Physics and Astronomy

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,046

Funders: National Natural Science Foundation of China, Natural Science Foundation of Sichuan Province