General relativistic effects and the near-infrared and X-ray variability of Sgr A* I

The near-infrared (NIR) and X-ray emission of Sagittarius A* shows occasional bright flares that are assumed to originate from the innermost region accretion flow. We identified 25 4.5 μm 24 in archival data obtained with Spitzer Chandra observatories. With help general relativistic ray-tracing code, we modeled trajectories “hot spots” studied light curves for signs effects relativity. Despite their apparent diversity shape, all share a common, exponential impulse response, characteristic shape is building block variability. This symmetric, is, rise fall times same. Furthermore, responses NIR identical within uncertainties, an time constant τ ∼ 15 m. observed flare inconsistent hot-spot orbits viewed edge-on. Individually modeling flares, derived constraints on inclination orbital plane hot spots respect observer ( i 30° , < 75°) timescale intrinsic variability (a few tens minutes).