Multiwavelength view of massive binaries

Abstract

The high luminosity of massive, early-type stars drives strong stellar winds through line scattering of the stars continuum radiation. Their momenta contribute substantially to the dynamics and energetics of the ambient interstellar medium in galaxies. The detailed multi-wavelength study of massive O-type and Wolf-Rayet binaries is essential to explore the hydrodynamics of the shocks formed in the stellar outflows and wind structure. Further, deep analysis of some of the interesting phenomena like particle acceleration and dust formation associated with hot stars winds provides a global view of stellar outflows. In this context, a few massive binaries have been explored using photometric and spectroscopic measurements in different wavebands. This paper highlights important insights gained from investigating massive binaries with several ground and space-based facilities.