Program
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Optical Properties and origin of Radio-Quiet X-ray Dim Isolated Neutron Stars
Christian Motch
Observatoire de Strasbourg
Abstract:
ROSAT has discovered a small group of X-ray emitting isolated neutron stars (INS)
characterised by a lack of radio emission and a soft thermal-like X-ray spectrum.
Weak interstellar absorption indicates relatively small distances of a few hundred
parsecs and the absence of nearby SNR suggests middle-age objects or old neutron
stars re-heated by accretion from the interstellar medium. Their proximity and the
absence of strong non-thermal activity make them unique laboratories for testing
radiative properties of neutron star surfaces, high gravity and high magnetic field
physics. Most of these INS have optical counterparts from which contraints on the
surface emitting properties can be derived. Optical imaging also allows sensitive
searches for proper motion which can provide information on space velocity and birth
place. I will report on the current problems faced by the modelling of the optical to
X-ray energy distributions and will discuss the evolutionary status, age and origin
of this particular population.
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