Possible Infrared Counterparts to the Soft Gamma-Ray Repeater SGR 1806-20

Abstract

We report the discovery of possible infrared counterparts to SGR 1806-20. We use archival {\it Chandra} observations to determine the location of SGR 1806-20 to $<1 \arcsec$ accuracy. We then locate 2 infrared objects within this error circle in K-band ($2.2 \mu$m) images of this field. Based on the X-ray absorption towards SGR 1806-20 and the extinction towards the nearby star cluster, we discuss the likelihood of association for the possible counterparts, and the implications for SGR 1806-20's physical properties and origins.