Artwork of an AM Herculis binary star
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Artwork of an AM Herculis binary star
Polar binary star. Artwork of a binary star system known as a polar. Polars are short period variable stars which emit X-rays. They consist of a normal star (left) in mutual orbit with a white dwarf (right). Their periods of variation are typically around 2 hours, and correlate with the orbital period of the white dwarf. Their light is strongly polarised. The gravitational field of the white dwarf pulls material off the larger star, and the dwarfs strong magnetic field channels it towards its poles, as seen at lower right. This material emits X-rays as it nears the white dwarf. Polars are also known as AM Her stars, after the first such star to be discovered, AM Herculis
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Media ID 9294081
© MARK GARLICK/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Binary Binary Star Cosmology Light Orange Orbit Pattern Peculiar Polar Solar System Space Object Star Star Death Stellar Two Objects White Dwarf
EDITORS COMMENTS
This artwork showcases the mesmerizing beauty of an AM Herculis binary star, also known as a polar binary star. Against a striking black background, this illustration captures the essence of these short period variable stars that emit X-rays. The image depicts two celestial objects in close proximity - a normal star on the left and a white dwarf on the right - locked in mutual orbit. The periodic variations of polars, typically lasting around 2 hours, are intricately connected to the orbital period of the white dwarf. The strong gravitational field exerted by the white dwarf pulls material off its larger companion star. This material is then channeled towards the poles of the white dwarf through its powerful magnetic field, as beautifully illustrated at lower right. As this matter nears the white dwarf, it emits intense X-rays that add to their enigmatic allure. Polars exhibit strong polarization in their light emissions due to these intricate dynamics. AM Her stars or polars derive their name from AM Herculis, which was among one of these fascinating systems discovered initially. This stunning print created by Mark Garlick invites us into an awe-inspiring realm where physics and art converge to depict cosmic phenomena with breathtaking precision and creativity.
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