Gamma-Ray Bursts Linked To Black Holes

A recently published paper (Astrophys. J. Supp, 2018) presents evidence that the majority of GRBs (~80%) have black holes as their sources. Here is a link to the paper: https://arxiv.org/abs/1712.09390 .

From the abstract: “ The central engine of gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) is poorly constrained. There exist two main candidates: a fast-rotating black hole and a rapidly spinning magnetar. (…) “ Our analysis indicates that, if the magnetar wind is isotropic, a magnetar central engine is possible for 20% of the analyzed GRBs. For most GRBs a black hole is most likely operating.”

If both Fast Radio Bursts and Gamma-Ray Bursts are generated by black hole sources, then that is a very large number of black holes. Perhaps enough to account for the previously unidentified dark matter.

Exciting times for astrophysics, and for those awaiting a long overdue paradigm change.