X-ray transient An X-ray source that rises rapidly and unpredictably from a normally quiescent state, gaining in intensity by a factor of 1,000 or more, typically over a period of a week, before gradually fading to quiescence. Unlike the more permanent, stable sources observed in the X-ray sky, transients may not flare up again for years. Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) |