Searching for compact objects in SNRs G27.8+0.6 and G28.8+1.5

TL;DR

This study used XMM-Newton data to search for neutron stars and pulsar wind nebulae in supernova remnants G27.8+0.6 and G28.8+1.5, discovering a PWN candidate and analyzing X-ray sources.

Contribution

First detection of a PWN candidate in G27.8+0.6, suggesting a moving pulsar; comprehensive X-ray source classification in these remnants.

Findings

Identified a PWN candidate in G27.8+0.6.

Most X-ray sources are main-sequence stars.

Some sources could be neutron stars, AGNs, or cataclysmic variables.

Abstract

We analyzed XMM-Newton observations of two center-filled supernova remnants, G27.8+0.6 and G28.8+1.5, to search for pulsars/pulsar wind nebulae (PWNe) and other types of neutron stars associated with these remnants. We discovered a PWN candidate within the extent of the centrally-peaked radio emission of G27.8+0.6. The X-ray morphology of the PWN candidate and its position with respect to the host supernova remnant suggest that the alleged pulsar might be moving away from the supernova remnant's center with a transverse velocity of around 100-200 km/s. The majority of the detected X-ray point sources in both fields are classified as main-sequence stars, based on their bright optical counterparts and relatively soft X-ray spectra. The remaining medium-hard and hard sources are most probably either AGNs or cataclysmic variables, although we cannot completely rule out the possibility that some of these sources are neutron stars.