Neutron star observables influenced by r-mode physics, such as their spin andthermal evolution, can potentially provide a unique window on their extremeinteriors. We propose to observe several fast spinning, but non-accreting MSPs(PSRs J1902-5105 and J2043+1711) to constrain their core temperatures and r-modeamplitudes. Recent results suggest r-modes are present at very low levels insome of these objects. Either the modes are efficiently damped by an as yetundetermined mechanism, or current calculations of the r-mode instability windowmay require substantial modification. Since both the instability window andsaturation mechanisms are sensitive to spin rates, our proposed observationswill provide clues to both of these possibilities.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2019-10-20T09:48:39Z/2019-10-21T14:50:19Z
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 Tod Strohmayer, 2020, 'Searching for the r-modes in Fast Millisecond Pulsars', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-86pbh6p
