We propose XMM-Newton observations of two nulling radio pulsars with magneticfields B>10^(13) G. These long-period pulsars have spin-down properties,including characteristic ages, similar to those of the Magnificent Seven whichare bright thermal X-ray emitters. Nulling pulsars have been suggested asevolutionary stage where the magnetospheric emission of a pulsar ceases. Incontrast, no magnetospheric emission was detected at all at X-ray or radiowavelengths for the Magnificent Seven. The proposed XMM-Newton observations willprobe the magneto-thermal NS evolution model as a potential link between theradio pulsar population and the Magnificent Seven. They will also provide forthe first time an X-ray characterization of nulling pulsars with large magnetic fields.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2014-09-29T17:19:36Z/2014-09-30T14:59:36Z
Version
17.56_20190403_1200
Mission Description
The European Space Agencys (ESA) X-ray Multi-Mirror Mission (XMM-Newton) was launched by an Ariane 504 on December 10th 1999. XMM-Newton is ESAs second cornerstone of the Horizon 2000 Science Programme. It carries 3 high throughput X-ray telescopes with an unprecedented effective area, and an optical monitor, the first flown on a X-ray observatory. The large collecting area and ability to make long uninterrupted exposures provide highly sensitive observations. Since Earths atmosphere blocks out all X-rays, only a telescope in space can detect and study celestial X-ray sources. The XMM-Newton mission is helping scientists to solve a number of cosmic mysteries, ranging from the enigmatic black holes to the origins of the Universe itself. Observing time on XMM-Newton is being made available to the scientific community, applying for observational periods on a competitive basis.
European Space Agency, Dr Bettina Posselt, 2015, 'Probing the X-ray emission of old nulling pulsars with high magnetic fields', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-z5quq0d
