The chandra LETGS high resolution X-ray spectrum of the isolated neutron star RX J1856.5-3754

Authors
Burwitz, V Zavlin, VE Neuhauser, R Predehl, P Trumper, J Brinkman, AC
Citation
V. Burwitz et al., The chandra LETGS high resolution X-ray spectrum of the isolated neutron star RX J1856.5-3754, ASTRON ASTR, 379(2), 2001, pp. L35-L38
Citations number
29
Categorie Soggetti
Space Sciences
Journal title
ASTRONOMY & ASTROPHYSICS
ISSN journal
14320746 → ACNP
Volume
379
Issue
2
Year of publication
2001
Pages
L35 - L38
Database
ISI
SICI code
1432-0746(200111)379:2<L35:TCLHRX>2.0.ZU;2-W
Abstract
We present the Chandra LETGS X-ray spectrum of the nearby (similar or equal to 60 pc) neutron star RXJ1856.5-3754. Detailed spectral analysis of the c ombined X-ray and optical data rules out the nonmagnetic neutron star atmos phere models with hydrogen, helium, iron and solar compositions. We also co nclude that strongly magnetized atmosphere models are unable to represent t he data. The data can be explained with a two-component blackbody model. Th e harder component with temperature of kT(bb)(infinity) similar or equal to 63 eV and a radius R-bb(infinity) similar or equal to2.2 km of the emittin g region well fits the X-ray data and can be interpreted as radiation from a hot region on the star's surface.