Parkes observations for project P455 semester 2018APRS_01

This project is to continue timing and profile studies of the first double-pulsar system, a unique laboratory for gravitational physics. Recent results, including the first measurements of higher-order light-propagation effects and of the relativistic deformation of the orbit, highlight the importance of a long term observational campaign for this remarkable system. The main aims of this proposal are to provide the strongest tests to date for general relativity and to measure for the first time the moment-of-inertia of a neutron star. Additionally, we will determine the system geometry and map the pulsar beams via geodetic precession. Whenever possible, we will exploit the high sensitivity of the new UWL receiver.

本项目旨在对首个双脉冲星系统（double-pulsar system）开展持续的计时与轮廓观测研究，该系统是引力物理学研究的独特天然实验室。近期取得的研究成果——包括首次对高阶光传播效应以及轨道的相对论性形变进行测量——凸显了针对该特殊系统开展长期观测计划的重要意义。本提案的核心目标在于为广义相对论（general relativity）提供截至目前最为严苛的检验，并首次实现对中子星转动惯量的测量。此外，我们将通过测地进动（geodetic precession）确定该系统的几何结构，并绘制脉冲星辐射束的分布图像。在条件允许的情况下，我们将利用新型UWL接收机的高灵敏度优势。