Constrain rapid neutron star merger timescales at low metallicity

Ascertain whether neutron star binary systems can merge on rapid timescales (on the order of ≈10 Myr) at low metallicity by constraining the neutron star merger delay time distribution in metal-poor environments, to evaluate their viability as r-process sources for low-metallicity enrichment.

Background

Explaining r-process enrichment in low-metallicity stars often requires prompt events. While theoretical models allow short delay times, observational constraints suggest longer delays. The authors note the delay time distribution is not well constrained at low metallicity, leaving ambiguity regarding the feasibility of rapid neutron star mergers contributing to low-metallicity enrichment.