Prediction of Multiwavelength Afterglows Associated with FRB 20200120E and FRB 20201124A

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Authors: Ke Bian, Can-Min Deng
Cited by: 0
References: 60

Abstract

Abstract Fast radio bursts (FRBs) are mysterious radio transients with uncertain origins and environments. Recent studies suggest that some active FRBs may originate from compact objects in binary systems. In this work, we develop a unified theoretical framework to model the multiwavelength afterglows of FRBs residing in binary systems and apply it to two representative repeaters, FRB 20200120E and FRB 20201124A. By solving the dynamics and radiation processes of FRB ejecta interacting with the surrounding medium, we compute afterglow light curves in the radio, optical, and X-ray bands. Our results show that radio afterglows offer the best prospects for detection, with their brightness highly sensitive to ejecta kinetic energy and ambient density. Future high-sensitivity radio telescopes, such as the Square Kilometre Array, could detect these signals. Optical afterglows, though short-lived and challenging to observe, may be significantly enhanced in dense environments, potentially making them detectable with facilities like the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope. In contrast, X-ray afterglows are predicted to be too faint for detection with current instruments. Our study highlights the potential of multiwavelength afterglows as probes of FRB progenitors and their surrounding environments, offering crucial insights into the nature of these mysterious transients.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Gamma-ray bursts and supernovae Pulsars and Gravitational Waves Research Radio Astronomy Observations and Technology

Publication details

Journal / source
The Astrophysical Journal
Volume
998
Issue
2
Pages
269–269
Publication date
16 February 2026
Language
EN