GRS 1915

The GRS 1915 binary system consists of a star and a black hole and has some unusual characteristics. The black hole is feeding on a constant stream of gas from the star, creating an energetic accretion disk.

Particle jets from the system have been observed blasting out in opposite directions cruising along at 98% the speed of light. These originate at the event horizon where strong magnetic fields fuel them and each pulsation matches the occurrence of the jets. By observing the X-ray spectrum, researchers have discovered the interior of the disk creates enough radiation to halt the gas flow – an outward wind which negates the inward flow – and shuts down activity. As a result, the inner disk glows hot and bright, eliminating itself as it flows toward the black hole and kick starts the jet activity again. It's a process that happens in as little as 40 seconds!

See also

• Binary IGR J17091-3624