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binary-neutron-star-system
Lacerta G-1 is a pair of neutron stars orbiting each other, emitting gravitational waves as their orbit slowly decays, a key focus of Karpal's observations.
1 chapter across 1 book
Diaspora (1997)Greg Egan
Chapter 6
Karpal, stationed alone at the Bullialdus observatory on the Moon, monitors gravitational waves from a binary neutron star system Lacerta G-1. He discovers an anomalous and drastic decrease in the orbital period of the neutron stars that cannot be explained by known physics or observational errors, suggesting a profound mystery in the system's energy dynamics. Despite extensive checks, no corroborative electromagnetic or neutrino signals accompany the gravitational anomaly, deepening the enigma.