arXiv:2505.14734v1 Announce Type: new
Abstract: In this paper, based on the action of a complex scalar field minimally coupled to a gravitational field, we numerically obtain a series of massive boson star solutions in a spherically symmetric background with a quartic-order self-interaction potential. Then, considering a thin accretion flow with a certain four-velocity, we further investigate the observable appearance of the boson star using the ray-tracing method and stereographic projection technique. As a horizonless compact object, the boson star’s thin disk images clearly exhibit multiple light rings and a dark central region, with up to five bright rings. As the observer’s position changes, the light rings of some boson stars deform into a symmetrical “horseshoe” or “crescent” shape. When the emitted profile varies, the images may display distinct observational signatures of a “Central Emission Region”. Meanwhile, it shows that the corresponding polarized images not only reveal the spacetime features of boson stars but also reflect the properties of the accretion disk and its magnetic field structure. By comparing with black hole, we find that both the polarized signatures and thin disk images can effectively provide a possible basis for distinguishing boson stars from black holes. However, within the current resolution limits of the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT), boson stars may still closely mimic the appearance of black holes, making them challenging to distinguish at this stage.
Conclusions:
- Numerical solutions for massive boson star in a spherically symmetric background obtained
- Thin accretion flow with four-velocity used to investigate observable appearance of boson star
- Thin disk images of boson star show multiple light rings, dark central region, and symmetrical shapes
- Polarized images of boson star reveal spacetime features, accretion disk properties, and magnetic field structure
- Comparing with black holes, polarized signatures and thin disk images can help distinguish boson stars
- Current resolution limits of Event Horizon Telescope may make it challenging to distinguish boson stars from black holes
Future Roadmap:
- Improving resolution of telescopes like the Event Horizon Telescope to better distinguish boson stars from black holes
- Developing advanced image processing techniques to enhance the observable features of boson stars
- Conducting further simulations and experiments to refine the understanding of boson stars and their unique characteristics
- Exploring additional observational methods beyond ray-tracing and stereographic projection to study boson stars
- Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to combine theoretical predictions with observational data for comprehensive analysis
Potential Challenges:
- Technical limitations in improving telescope resolution may hinder the distinction between boson stars and black holes
- Complexity of boson star properties and interactions may require sophisticated modeling and simulation techniques
- Limited funding and resources for conducting extensive research on boson stars and their observational signatures
Potential Opportunities:
- Advancements in technology and image processing algorithms could facilitate clearer differentiation of boson stars from black holes
- Growing interest in astrophysical objects beyond black holes could attract more research interest and funding in the field of boson stars
- Collaboration with international teams and institutions could provide access to a wider range of observational data and expertise