Since its January 2024 launch, China's Einstein Probe (EP) has been lighting up the cosmos like never before. Almost two years on, this pioneering X-ray satellite, led by the Chinese Academy of Sciences, continues to spot fleeting, explosive events that flicker across the universecosmic fireworks that deepen our understanding of high-energy astrophysics.
Tracking Slow-Evolving Cosmic Fireworks
In late October 2024, EP discovered a new X-ray transient named EP241021a that persisted for over 40 days. This slowed-down eruption, accompanied by a relativistic jet, is so rare that astronomers are debating whether it signals a star being torn apart by an intermediate-mass black hole or an unusual core-collapse explosion.
Unveiling Hidden Black Holes in the Milky Way
Last September, the probe caught an exceptionally faint X-ray burst dubbed EP240904a within our galaxy. About 100 times dimmer than typical black hole eruptions, this signal had been hiding in plain sight. The study suggests it opens a new window for finding a silent population of black holes in the Milky Way.
Spotlight on Rare Soft X-ray Flashes
Another highlight came when EP240801a triggered the probe's autonomous follow-up instrument. A joint analysis with NASA's Fermi satellite revealed a very soft X-ray flashdominated by low-energy X-raysoffering fresh clues to the diversity of gamma-ray bursts and stellar collapse events.
Taken together, these milestones showcase EP's unique blend of wide-field monitoring and precise follow-up. As new data continues to stream in, the mission stands at the forefront of time-domain high-energy astronomy, proving that the universe still has countless mysteries to reveal.
Whether you're a budding astronaut, a space-loving traveler, or simply curious about the cosmos, these cosmic fireworks are a reminder that discovery often happens when we least expect it.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
