The gravitational two-body potential generated by binary systems

Abstract

We evaluate the {\em three-dimensional}, {\em non-axis-symmetric}, {\em time-dependent} Newton potential generated by a pair of mutually orbiting objects such as pairs of ordinary or neutron stars and, in some approximations, black holes, spinning around each other. The `vertical component' of the gravitational force (that is, that orthogonal to the plane of their orbit) is also evaluated, along with the other components of the field. The pseudo-Newtonian Paczyński-Wiita form of the potential is also computed. The effect of the asymmetry due to the more common case of different masses is stressed.

17 pages, no figures, work in progress