What the study found
The BAGLE Python software package now includes models for binary sources and binary lenses in gravitational microlensing. These models include Keplerian orbits, as well as simpler descriptions of orbital motion such as acceleration, linear, or stationary motion of the secondary companion.
Why the authors say this matters
The authors say these new parameterizations can support joint fitting of photometric and astrometric data sets, and that the binary models will be used for microlensing event data from the Vera C. Rubin Observatory, the Nancy Grace Roman Telescope, and other surveys.
What the researchers tested
The researchers introduced binary source and binary lens models into the gravitational lensing formalism implemented in the Bayesian Analysis of Gravitational Lensing Events (BAGLE) Python package. They also added reduced-parameter binary models designed for cases with very low eccentricity or orbital periods much longer than the microlensing timescale.
What worked and what didn't
The abstract states that the new binary models account for Keplerian orbital motion. It also states that the simplified acceleration, linear, and stationary motion models are useful when the orbit has very low eccentricity or when the orbital period is much longer than the microlensing timescale.
What to keep in mind
The abstract does not describe test results, performance comparisons, or limitations beyond the intended use of the model types. It also does not provide numerical outcomes or validation details.
Key points
- BAGLE now includes binary source and binary lens models for gravitational microlensing.
- The new models account for Keplerian orbits.
- Simplified binary models describe acceleration, linear, or stationary motion of a secondary companion.
- The authors say the parameterizations support joint fitting of photometric and astrometric data.
- The abstract says the models will be used for data from Rubin, Roman, and other surveys.
Disclosure
- Research title:
- BAGLE adds binary lens and source models for microlensing
- Authors:
- T. Dex Bhadra, Jessica R. Lu, Natasha S. Abrams, Andrew Scharf, Edward Broadberry, Casey Y. Lam, Macy Huston
- Institutions:
- Goddard Space Flight Center, University of Maryland, College Park, University of California, Berkeley, Carnegie Institution for Science, Carnegie Observatories
- Publication date:
- 2026-04-24
- OpenAlex record:
- View
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