Z-sources

Z-sources are a type of neutron star system where material from a companion star spirals in, forming an accretion disk. As the matter falls onto the neutron star, it emits X-rays that we can observe. Z-sources are named for the shape they trace in X-ray brightness over time, forming a “Z” pattern in their data. They are highly luminous and exhibit complex variability due to changes in the accretion rate. Understanding Z-sources helps scientists learn about extreme physics near neutron stars, including how matter behaves under intense gravity and magnetic fields.