GBT24B-374

Continued observations of an eccentric, relativistic binary pulsar

Abstract

We propose to continue our high-precision timing campaign of PSR J1757-1854, a highly eccentric Double Neutron Star system, which stands among the most relativistic binary pulsars known. Pulsars in relativistic binary systems (such as the Double Pulsar) are objects of high scientific interest, as they allow for precise tests of General Relativity and other theories of gravity. To date, GBT observations have successfully measured the pulsar's proper motion (informing the available tests of gravity) and have continued to support the presence of geodetic precession. We propose to continue this successful timing campaign through semester 25A. These observations will support multiple short term goals, including additional constraint of the pulsar's post-Keplerian parameters and evolutionary scenarios, as well as searches for further evidence of geodetic precession and pulsations from the companion neutron star, which we intend to publish within the next 6 months. Additional long-term goals include constraining the moment of inertia of the pulsar through measurements of Lense-Thirring precession, and constraining the relativistic orbital deformation, both of which are expected within ~2-5 years.

Investigators

Name	Institution
Michael Kramer	Manchester, University of; Max-Planck-Institut für Radioastronomie
Paulo Freire	Max-Planck-Institut für Radioastronomie
Andrea Possenti	Istituto Nazionale di Astrofisica
Andrew Cameron	Max-Planck-Institut für Radioastronomie; Swinburne University of Technology; Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation
Victoria Blackmon *	West Virginia University
Maura McLaughlin	West Virginia University
Ben Stappers	Manchester, University of
Norbert Wex	Max-Planck-Institut für Radioastronomie
Andrew Lyne	Manchester, University of
Alessandro Ridolfi	Istituto Nazionale di Astrofisica
Cherry Ng	Max-Planck-Institut für Radioastronomie; Toronto, University of
David Champion	Max-Planck-Institut für Radioastronomie
Matthew Bailes	Swinburne University of Technology
Simon Johnston	Australia Telescope National Facility

* indicates the PI