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arXiv · 2107.08156

XMM-Newton Observes the Intrabinary Shock of PSR J1959+2048

D. Kandel·Roger W. Romani·Hongjun An
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Abstract

In a multi-orbit (100 ks) $\mathrm{\it XMM-Newton}$ exposure of the original black widow pulsar, PSR J1959+2048, we measure the strong orbital modulation caused by intrabinary shock (IBS) emission. The IBS light curve peak appears asymmetric, which we attribute to sweep-back effects in the companion wind. We also see evidence for an X-ray eclipse by the companion and its wind. Together with the IBS fit, this supports an edge-on $i\sim 90^\circ$ view of the system and a modest $\sim 1.8M_\odot$ mass for the recycled pulsar. Our IBS fit parameters imply a wind flux that, if persistent, would evaporated the companion within a few Gyr.

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D. Kandel, Roger W. Romani, Hongjun An. 2021-07-17. XMM-Newton Observes the Intrabinary Shock of PSR J1959+2048. https://doi.org/10.3847/2041-8213%2Fac15f7

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