Follow-up of isolated neutron star candidates from the eROSITA survey

TL;DR

This paper uses Monte Carlo simulations to forecast the detection of X-ray faint isolated neutron stars by the eROSITA survey, aiming to improve understanding of their evolution and identify candidates for follow-up observations.

Contribution

It introduces a population synthesis model for thermally emitting neutron stars and proposes strategies for follow-up detection using current and future observatories.

Findings

eROSITA can unveil the faint neutron star population

Simulation-based forecasts guide follow-up observations

Strategies improve candidate identification for neutron star studies

Abstract

Peculiar groups of X-ray emitting isolated neutron stars, which include magnetars, the "Magnificent Seven", and central compact objects in supernova remnants, escape detection in standard pulsar surveys. Yet, they constitute a key element in understanding the neutron star evolution and phenomenology. Their use in population studies in the galactic scale has been hindered by the scarcity of their detection. The all-sky survey of eROSITA on-board the forthcoming Spectrum-RG mission has the unique potential to unveil the X-ray faint part of the population and constrain evolutionary models. To create a forecast for the four-year all-sky survey, we perform Monte Carlo simulations of a population synthesis model, where we follow the evolutionary tracks of thermally emitting neutron stars in the Milky Way and test their detectability. In this work, we discuss strategies for pinpointing the most promising candidates for follow-up observing campaigns using current and future facilities.