Going out with a bang: compact object collisions resulting from supernovae in binary systems

TL;DR

This paper investigates how supernova explosions in binary systems can lead to the formation of tight, eccentric compact object pairs that may produce observable high-energy transients like short gamma-ray bursts shortly after the supernova event.

Contribution

It provides a quantitative analysis of the likelihood of compact object collisions following supernovae in binary systems and explores their potential as sources of high-energy transients.

Findings

High probability of bound, eccentric orbits forming after supernovae.

Potential for short gamma-ray bursts within days of supernovae.

Interaction with supernova debris can influence the merger process.

Abstract

Binary star systems containing a neutron star or a black hole with an evolved, massive star are dynamically perturbed when the latter undergoes a supernova explosion. It is possible that the natal kick received by the newly-formed neutron star in the supernova may place the stellar remnants into a bound, highly eccentric orbit. In this case, the two compact objects can tidally interact and spiral into one another on a short timescale. The interaction with an accretion disc of supernova debris is also considered. We quantify the likelihood of such events and show that they would be expected to produce a high-energy transient, possibly a short gamma-ray burst, typically within a few days of the supernova.