We confirm a shifting line feature in the spectrum of PSR J0821-4300, thecompact central object (CCO) in Puppis A. This pulsar has the smallest dipolemagnetic field (2.8E10 G) inferred for any young neutron star. The spectralfeature is consistent with electron cyclotron resonance scattering of surfaceemitted photons in this magnetic field, however, its strength and energy areunexpectedly variable in time. We propose new measurements to monitor theimplied variability of the magnetic field, plausibly indicative of accretion ofsupernova debris, a likely mechanism for generating an emission line. Thisobservation will also allow simultaneous timing of the pulsar to test forcorrelated torque noise and to ensure a continued ephemeris to monitor its long-term timing behavior.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2016-11-08T00:29:53Z/2016-11-09T02:16:33Z
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 Eric Gotthelf, 2018, 'A Shifty Spectral Line from CCO PSR J0821-4300: Accretion From a Debris DiskquestionMark', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-emgihvq
