SXP 1062: an Evolved Magnetar in a BeXB ?

TL;DR

SXP 1062 is a young Be/X-ray binary with a long spin period, likely hosting a neutron star born with a very strong magnetic field that has decayed over time, providing insights into magnetar evolution.

Contribution

This study presents the first detailed evolutionary scenario for SXP 1062, linking its long spin period and young age to a decayed ultra-strong initial magnetic field.

Findings

SXP 1062 is the youngest known Be/X-ray binary with an associated SNR.

The neutron star likely had an initial magnetic field >10^14 G.

Magnetic field decay explains the current long spin period.

Abstract

SXP 1062, a newly discovered Be/X-ray binary in the Small Magellanic Cloud, provides the first example of a robust association with a supernova remnant (SNR). The short age estimated for the SNR qualifies SXP 1062 as the youngest known source in its class, ~ 10^4 yr. Here we discuss possible evolutionary scenarios for SXP 1062 in the attempt to reconcile its long spin period, P=1062 s, and short age. Our results indicate that SXP 1062 may host a neutron star born with a large initial magnetic field, typically in excess of ~ 10^14 G, which then decayed to ~ 10^13 G.