Radfelge

Radfelge is a term used in speculative astrophysics and science fiction to denote a ring-shaped region of enhanced radiation surrounding a compact stellar remnant, such as a magnetar or black hole. The name is derived from rad for radiation and felge, a Germanic-inspired root meaning belt or fringe. The concept is used to describe zones where energetic particles and photons accumulate due to magnetic, gravitational, and plasma processes. In real-world astronomy, Radfelge is not an established term.

Radfelge formation and structure in models occurs where outflows from the central object interact with surrounding material, creating a toroidal shell of high-energy photons and particles. Its radial extent and thickness vary with energy band; inner radii are often 0.1 to 1 parsec, with outer extents up to several parsecs in dense environments. The structure may be stabilized by magnetic torques and differential rotation.

Radfelge observational properties include emission across X-ray to radio bands; gamma-ray emission can arise from inverse Compton scattering and synchrotron processes. Polarization measurements reveal tangled or ordered magnetic fields. Variability tends to occur on timescales from days to years, reflecting changes in outflows and ambient medium.

In both speculative and fictional contexts, Radfelge serves as a framework for studying particle acceleration and radiation transfer in extreme gravity and magnetic fields, and it is sometimes used as a narrative device to mark energetic activity around compact objects.