The puzzling temporally variable optical and X-ray afterglow of GRB 101024A
arXiv:1104.3028 · doi:10.1051/0004-6361/201116794
Abstract
Aim: To present the optical observations of the afterglow of GRB 101024A and to try to reconcile these observations with the X-ray afterglow data of GRB 101024A using current afterglow models Method: We employ early optical observations using the Zadko Telescope combined with X-ray data and compare with the reverse shock/forward shock model. Results: The early optical light curve reveals a very unusual steep decay index of alpha~5. This is followed by a flattening and possibly a plateau phase coincident with a similar feature in the X-ray. We discuss these observations in the framework of the standard reverse shock/forward shock model and energy injection.We note that the plateau phase might also be the signature of the formation of a new magnetar.
5 pages, 2 figures. Accepted for publication in Astronomy and Astrophysics
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