Deep eROSITA observations of the "magnificent seven" isolated neutron stars

TL;DR

Deep eROSITA observations of the 'magnificent seven' isolated neutron stars reveal complex spectral features, variability, and deviations from simple thermal models, challenging existing theories on neutron star atmospheres and cooling.

Contribution

This study provides the first detailed spectral and temporal analysis of the 'magnificent seven' INSs using deep eROSITA data, uncovering new absorption features and variability.

Findings

Detection of multiple phase-dependent spectral absorption features

Observation of long-term spectral and timing variability

Deviations from simple thermal emission models

Abstract

We report the initial results of deep eROSITA monitoring of the "magnificent seven" isolated neutron stars (INSs). Thanks to a combination of high count statistics and good energy resolution, the eROSITA datasets unveil the increasingly complex energy distribution of these presumably simple thermal emitters. For three targets, we report the detection of multiple (in some cases, phase-dependent) spectral absorption features and deviations from the dominant thermal continuum. Unexpected long-term changes of spectral state and timing behaviour have additionally been observed for two INSs. The results pose challenging theoretical questions on the nature of the variations and absorption features and ultimately impact the modeling of the atmosphere and cooling of highly magnetised neutron stars.