X-Ray Binary Transients: Insights and Discoveries
A special issue of Universe (ISSN 2218-1997). This special issue belongs to the section "Compact Objects".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 21 August 2026 | Viewed by 4
Special Issue Editor
Interests: stellar evolution; interacting binaries; open clusters; star formation; galactic structure
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
The class of X-ray binary transients (XRBTs) encompasses a variety of typologies and physical mechanisms that probe a myriad of astrophysically relevant scenarios, such as extreme accretion physics, the structure and evolution of accretion disks, properties of compact objects, and binary evolution. Recent advances in multi-wavelength observations and time-domain surveys have expanded our understanding of these systems, revealing new classes of transients and uncovering richer phenomenology across luminosity and timescales. At the same time, theoretical developments and large-scale numerical simulations now offer a much sharper view into the triggers of outbursts, the role of magnetic fields, and the broader impact of XRBTs on galactic feedback. Moreover, different XRBT populations are being used to place constraints on population-synthesis models aimed at reproducing the progenitors of gravitational-wave events.
This Special Issue invites contributions on observational, theoretical, and computational studies of XRBTs, including, but not limited to, the following:
- Discovery and classification of new transient systems and new classes (e.g., ultra-luminous X-ray transients, quasi-periodic eruptions, repeating nuclear transients).
- Physics of accretion and ejection during outbursts and quiescent phases.
- Binary evolution pathways connecting XRBTs to compact-object mergers and gravitational-wave progenitors.
- Multi-messenger synergies (X-ray, radio, optical, gravitational waves).
We encourage observational, theoretical, and computational submissions that utilize both traditional and innovative techniques to unravel the complexities of XRBTs. Both original research articles and comprehensive reviews are welcome.
Prof. Dr. Ignacio Negueruela
Guest Editor
Manuscript Submission Information
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Keywords
- X-ray binaries
- transient astrophysics
- accretion physics
- compact objects
- time-domain astronomy
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