X-ray binary

An X-ray binary is a system consisting of two stars orbiting each other: one is usually a dense, compact object like a neutron star or black hole, and the other is a normal star. The intense gravity of the compact object pulls material from its companion, forming an accretion disk—a swirling mass of gas. As this material spirals inward, it heats up to millions of degrees, emitting powerful X-rays. These X-ray emissions can be detected from Earth, providing insights into extreme physics and the nature of dense matter.