Work

Dissecting the variability of Sagittarius A* in the orbiting hotspot framework

Year: 2026

Type: preprint

Abstract: Sagittarius A* (Sgr A*) exhibits intermittent flaring behavior, characterized by strong enhancements in high-energy emission (infrared and X-ray). These events have been interpreted as related to the coherent orbital motion of localized regions of energized plasma - hotspots. While this framework has been quite fruitful in constraining properties of Sgr A*, it is subject to important challenges and limitations. In this brief review we discuss the recent observational and theoretical developments related to this line of research, commenting on the concerns regarding the hotspot model validity and the future perspectives.

Source: arXiv (Cornell University)

DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2609.28844

Authors: Wielgus, Maciek, Yfantis, Aristomenis

Institution: Instituto de Astrofísica de Andalucía

Language: English

Topic: Astrophysical Phenomena and Observations

Subfield: Astronomy and Astrophysics

Field: Physics and Astronomy

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: green

Funders: European Commission, Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación, HORIZON EUROPE Framework Programme, Agencia Estatal de Investigación

Awards: G1381791653, G1855990336, G2309174360, G279363373, G3518538256, G3530893508, G430777504, G463062595, G5421974903, G5881647929, G5894067328, New science in Radio Astronomy: applying cutting-edge technology to enhance the entire data chain, from receiver to final output., G99296377

OpenAlex ID: W7214285317

Cites:

Cited by: 1

Related to: 10