Accurate Period Determination of an Eclipsing Binary X-Ray Source in M33

We have analyzed the time variability of one of the X-ray sources in M33 observed by both the ROSAT and Einstein Observatory telescopes. The light curve of M33 X-7 exhibits a variability pattern of high and low states, suggesting an eclipsing binary X-ray source. The data suggest a binary period P=1.78572 days (very close to that of Her X-1) and an eclipse duration of ∼0.4 days. The low phase lasts about one-fourth of the period as in Cen X-3