The axially-symmetric two-body problem

A new approach to the two-body problem is introduced which entails the perturbation of an initially static configuration. It is demonstrated that Einstein's theory demands that the bodies move when the equilibrium-sustaining stress is weakened. Radiation from the system, both during the stress-breaking and free-fall period are discussed. For free-fall, the non-linearities could greatly alter the energy loss rate from that predicted by the ‘quadrupole formula’.