XMM-Newton Observation of PSR B0826-34: A Test of Pulsar Inner Gap Models

The properties of the inner gaps have been subject to theoretical debate. Xrayobservations of the subpulse drifting pulsars open a door to greatly constrainthe properties of the inner gaps from the data. A previous XMM observation ofPSR B0943+10 by the PI has provided strong evidence of the existence of apartially screened inner gap in this pulsar. In order to definitely test thetheory, an observation of another subpulse drifting radio pulsar with highersignificance is desirable. PSR B082634 is an ideal target to achieve this goal.We propose a 50 ks exposure of this pulsar to detect the Xray emission due topolar cap heating and to differentiate a thermal spectrum from a power law one.This has profound implications for the understanding of pulsar inner gaps. truncated!, Please see actual data for full text [truncated!, Please see actual data for full text]