A Nonthermal Bomb Explains the Near-infrared Superflare of Sgr A*

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Author(s):	Gutierrez, Eduardo M. ; Nemmen, Rodrigo ; Cafardo, Fabio Total Authors: 3
Document type:	Journal article
Source:	Astrophysical Journal Letters; v. 891, n. 2, p. 4-pg., 2020-03-10.
Abstract
The Galactic center supermassive black hole, Sgr A*, has experienced a strong, unprecedented flare in 2019 May when its near-infrared luminosity reached much brighter levels than ever measured. We argue that an explosive event of particle acceleration to nonthermal energies in the innermost parts of the accretion flow-a nonthermal bomb-explains the near-infrared light curve. We discuss potential mechanisms that could explain this event such as magnetic reconnection and relativistic turbulence acceleration. Multiwavelength monitoring of such superflares in radio, infrared, and X-rays should allow a concrete test of the nonthermal bomb model and put better constraints on the mechanism that triggered the bomb. (AU)

FAPESP's process:	17/01461-2 - The extreme universe: black holes and the Fermi telescope
Grantee:	Rodrigo Nemmen da Silva
Support Opportunities:	Research Grants - Young Investigators Grants