GRB afterglow

A GRB (Gamma-Ray Burst) afterglow is the fading light observed after the initial burst of gamma rays from an extremely energetic cosmic event, such as a collapsing star or merging neutron stars. This afterglow occurs when the explosive energy interacts with surrounding gas and dust, producing visible, X-ray, and radio emissions over days to weeks. It provides valuable information about the environment and the physics of the explosion. Essentially, the afterglow is the lingering glow that follows the brief, intense gamma-ray flash, allowing astronomers to study the event's origin and properties.