PSR J1906+0746: From relativistic spin-precession to beam modeling

Abstract

Shortly after the discovery of PSR J1906+0746, some hints of profile variations were already interpreted as first signs of relativistic spin-precession occuring. Using observations from the Nançay, Arecibo and Green Bank Radio Observatories, we report here the measurement of pulse profile and polarimetric variations. Using the Rotating Vector Model, we show that PSR J1906+0746 is likely to be an orthogonal rotator ($α\simeq 80^\circ$). Fitting our polarimetric data to a precession model, we determined the geometry of the pulsar and found a wide misalignment angle ($δ= 89_{-44}^{+85}$ deg, 95% C.L.), although the uncertainty is large. Assuming this geometry, we constructed the beam maps of both magnetic poles.

Proceedings of IAUS 291 "Neutron Stars and Pulsars: Challenges and Opportunities after 80 years", J. van Leeuwen (ed.); 4 pages, 3 figures