A Phase-Binning CCD for Optical Pusar Studies: Polarization Capability & Southern Hemisphere Campaign

California Institute Of Technology, Pasadena CA

Investigators

Abstract

Martin, C. "A Phase-Binning CCD for Optical Pulsar Studies: Polarization Capability & Southern Hemisphere Campaign" AST-0096928 This research will improve the currently existing electronics in a phase-binning CCD system, previously supported by NSF funds, for sensitive photopolarimetry of pulsations in the optical light of pulsars. The camera will be implemented at the CTIO 4-m telescope to obtain phased photopolarimetric data of moderately faint (V=23.4) Southern Hemisphere pulsars. The detection of optical pulsations will: 1. Provide unambiguous identification of the optical counterpart of pulsars where the counterpart is believed to be known and in those where it is definitely not; 2. Distinguish between thermal and non-thermal emission mechanisms producing the optical light; 3. Allow a measurement of the temperature of old neutron stars which are weak or absent in the X-ray band; and 4. Permit a search for evidence of heating by exotic processes such as magnetic monopoles. ***