Astronomers have observed a source that emits large amounts of X-rays in the galaxy M82. In order to try and explain the large amounts of X-rays emitted by this object, this article proposes it is an object with a strong magnetic field, called a magnetar, that is accreting material. As this accreted material falls toward the magnetar, friction causes it to generate a great deal of heat and radiate X-rays. The model proposed in this article can be tested with future observations and help astronomers gain a better understanding of these objects.

http://www.raa-journal.org/raa/index.php/raa/article/view/2082