Multiwavelength Observations of Accretion in Low-Mass X-ray Binary Systems

TL;DR

This paper reviews multiwavelength observational techniques for studying accretion processes in low-mass X-ray binary systems, emphasizing ultraviolet, optical, and infrared data analysis methods.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of observational methods and data interpretation techniques across multiple wavelengths for low-mass X-ray binaries.

Findings

Analysis of outbursts in soft X-ray transients

Characterization of accretion disk spectral energy distributions

Insights into variability and system parameters

Abstract

This work is intended to provide an introduction to multiwavelength observations of low-mass X-ray binaries and the techniques used to analyze and interpret their data. The focus will primarily be on ultraviolet, optical, and infrared observations and their connections to other wavelengths. The topics covered include: outbursts of soft X-ray transients, accretion disk spectral energy distributions, orbital lightcurves in luminous and quiescent states, super-orbital and sub-orbital variability, line spectra, system parameter determinations, and echo-mapping and other rapid correlated variability.