Study of the Polarimetric Properties of Accreting X-ray Binary Systems with IXPE

Transitional binary systems are accreting pulsars observed both in the Low Mass X-ray Binary (LMXB) phase and in the Millisecond Radio Pulsar (MSP) phase. They are considered the ideal laboratory for the definitive confirmation of the so-called recycling scenario, which explains the acceleration of radio pulsars to millisecond periods. Studying the polarimetric properties of accreting pulsars can lead to a better characterization of the emission geometry, thus imposing stringent constraints on emission mechanisms.

The cases of two milestones in this field of astronomy, SAXJ1808.4-3658 and PSR J1023+0038, are examined. Observations with the Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE) will help clarify a series of still uncertain aspects regarding the evolution of neutron stars. The results of some simulations concerning the feasibility of certain observations with the IXPE telescope are presented.

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Today Astro Chiacchiere! is an informal meeting among the staff of the Astronomical Observatory of Cagliari (staff, postdocs, and students), aimed at discussing topics mainly of a scientific, technological, and informational nature regarding the Observatory’s activities. The meeting usually takes place on Tuesdays at
11:30 AM in the Auditorium of the Astronomical Observatory of Cagliari. For information and/or contributions, contact valentina.vacca@inaf.it and gabriele.surcis@inaf.it