Three-dimensional rendering of our simulation of a premerger binary neutron star system. The main panel (b) shows a three-dimensional rendering of the current density j (compensated by r) at t = 3.42 P_*. The stars are rendered as light-blue spheres, with arrows denoting their magnetic moments and a sample of white field lines traced from their surfaces. Panel (a) shows five snapshots of burst evolution, from formation (top) to ejection (bottom). Panel (c) shows 2D slices of current density (top) and plasma density (bottom), on a plane perpendicular to the bubble and current sheet, passing midway between the two stars (indicated by the dashed green line in panel (b)). Dashed black lines in panel (c) denote the projection of the stars onto this plane. White field lines also show the magnetic field reversal across the current sheet. An animation showing the full simulation for multiple P_* is available in the online journal. The animation proceeds from t = 0 P_* through 3.84 P_*. At t = 2 P_*, the three-dimensional rendering begins to rotate around the Z-axis.

(An animation of this figure is available in the online article.)

(An animation of this figure is available.)

The video/animation of this figure is available in the online journal.