Chandra High-Resolution Camera observations of the luminous X-ray source in the starburst galaxy M82

• DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-8711.2001.04064.x
• Publication Date: 2003-03-12T13:28:19Z
• Authors: P. Kaaret; A. H. Prestwich; A. Zezas; S. S. Murray; D.- W. Kim; R. E. Kilgard; E. M. Schlegel; M. J. Ward
• Keywords: Black hole (networking); Compact star

We have analyzed Chandra High Resolution Camera observations of the starburst galaxy M82, concentrating on most luminous x-ray source. find a position for source $\rm R.A. = 09^h 55^m 50^s.2, decl. +69^{\circ} 40\arcmin 46\arcsec.7$ (J2000) with $1σ$ radial error $0.7\arcsec$. The accurate shows that is not at dynamical centre M82 nor coincident any suggested radio AGN candidate. highly variable between observations, which suggests compact object and supernova or remnant. There no significant short term variability within observations. Dynamical friction off-center place an upper bound $10^{5} - 10^{6} M_{\odot}$ mass object, depending its age. luminosity least $500 M_{\odot}$. Thus, in may represent new class intermediate those stellar black hole candidates supermassive holes.