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Nirpat Subba

Publications and source records attributed to Nirpat Subba.

2 recordsLinked to original sources

Spectral-Timing Evolution of a Black hole X-ray binary Swift J1727.8-1613: Linking Disk Reflection and Type-C QPO Frequency During the 2023 Outburst

We present a comprehensive spectral-timing analysis of a BHXB Swift J1727.8$-$1613 during its 2023 outburst, using five pointed \textit{NuSTAR} observations sampling the luminous hard-intermediate state. Broadband 3-79 keV spectroscopy employs a physically motivated model combining a cool truncated disk (\texttt{diskbb}), relativistic reflection (\texttt{relxill} in reflection-only mode), and Comptonized continuum (\texttt{nthComp}) to probe the inner accretion geometry around a rapidly spinning black hole ($a_\ast\!=\!0.98$) at moderate inclination. Simultaneous timing analysis reveals type-C quasi-periodic oscillations (QPOs) with novel coherence evolution: the quality factor ($Q$) exhibits a striking non-monotonic dependence on both QPO frequency and luminosity, peaking near $\nu_{\rm QPO}\!\sim\!1.2$~Hz and declining at both lower and higher frequencies. This turnover directly constrains Lense-Thirring precession geometry, implying optimal coherence at intermediate truncation radius. A tight photon-index-QPO-frequency correlation demonstrates that spectral softening and frequency rise are concurrent signatures of inward truncation-radius motion. The triadic luminosity evolution-rising disk and Compton, declining reflection-traces precession-driven geometry changes and corona beaming effects. Interpreting disk-normalization variability as apparent-area changes rather than physical radius swings provides new insight into disk-corona boundary layers. These quantitative results provide strong evidence for global Lense-Thirring precession regulation of both timing and spectral properties, establishing Swift J1727.8$-$1613 as a benchmark source for understanding accretion-geometry physics during black hole state transitions.

astro-ph.HE

Eclipse Dynamics and X-ray Burst Characteristics in the Low-Mass X-ray Binary EXO 0748-676

This study investigates the timing and spectral characteristics of X-ray bursts from the neutron star system EXO 0748-676 using the NuSTAR observatory's FPMA and FPMB instruments in the 3-79 keV range. We identify Type I X-ray bursts driven by thermonuclear explosions on the neutron star's surface, notably a significant burst at \(X = 18,479.97\), indicating rapid energy release, followed by a recoil burst at \(X = 19,463.97\), reflecting stabilization. The correlation between burst timing and the neutron star's optical period suggests modulation by its rotation and periodic accretion dynamics. Spectral modeling reveals a photon index of \( \Gamma = 1.24 \pm 0.014 \) and a cutoff energy of \( E_C = 36.20 \pm 1.04 \; \text{keV} \), indicating a hot corona around the neutron star. The measured flux of approximately \( (381.17 \pm 0.014) \times 10^{-12} \; \text{erg cm}^{-2} \text{s}^{-1} \) underscores the dynamic nature of accretion-driven systems. Calculated luminosities derived from distance estimates range from \( (3.86 \pm 0.239) \times 10^{36} \; \text{erg/s} \) to \( (2.3 \pm 0.177) \times 10^{36} \; \text{erg/s} \). Comparative analysis with prior observations from the IBIS/ISGRI instrument on the INTEGRAL satellite shows variability in emission characteristics, including softer photon indices and higher cutoff energies in 2003 and 2004. Our examination of smaller energy gaps (3-7 keV, 7-12 keV, etc.) reveals energy-dependent behavior in burst characteristics, enhancing our understanding of nuclear burning phases. Overall, these findings validate models describing Type I X-ray bursts and lay the groundwork for future investigations into similar astrophysical systems and stellar evolution processes in extreme environments.

astro-ph.HE