General relativistic magnetohydrodynamic simulations of accretion onto exotic compact objects

Abstract: Some of the extensions to general relativity and to the Standard Model of particle physics predict families of hypothetical compact objects, collectively known as exotic compact objects (ECOs). This category can be defined to encompass non-Kerr black holes both within and beyond general relativity, as well as horizonless compact objects such as boson stars. In order to model observational signatures and identify possible detections, it is crucial to understand the interaction between these objects and their surrounding medium, usually plasmas described by the equations of general relativistic magnetohydrodynamics (GRMHD). To this end, we review the existent literature on GRMHD simulations of accretion onto these objects. These cover a variety of objects and accretion patterns. We conclude by listing possible directions to continue exploring this relatively young field.