GAMMA-RAY PULSARS - RADIATION PROCESSES IN THE OUTER MAGNETOSPHERE

We describe an emission model for gamma-ray pulsars based on curvature radiation-reaction-limited charges in the outer magnetosphere. We sho w how pair production on thermal. surface flux can limit the accelerat ion zones; estimates for the efficiency of GeV photon production eta(g amma) and the gamma-ray beaming fraction are derived, including their dependence on pulsar parameters. In general, eta(gamma) increases with pulsar age but is decreased for low magnetic fields and for small mag netic inclinations. We argue that this produces GeV pulse profiles, cu rvature spectra, and detection statistics consistent with the observat ions. We also describe the optical through X-ray pulsar synchrotron sp ectrum and the spectral variations with pulsar phase. A test computati on for Vela-like parameters reproduces phase-resolved GeV spectra cons istent with those observed by EGRET. Finally, we comment on very high energy pulsed emission and particle production and note extensions nee ded to allow a more complete pulsar model.