X-ray polarimetry-timing

TL;DR

X-ray polarimetry-timing is an emerging field that analyzes rapid changes in X-ray polarization to understand the environments around compact objects, with new missions enabling this promising research area.

Contribution

This paper reviews the theoretical expectations and data analysis techniques for the nascent field of X-ray polarimetry-timing, highlighting its potential for future discoveries.

Findings

Theoretical predictions of X-ray polarization variability.

Description of data analysis techniques for polarimetry-timing.

Discussion of the first capable X-ray mission for polarimetry-timing.

Abstract

X-ray polarimetry-timing is the characterization of rapid variability in the X-ray polarization degree and angle. As for the case of spectral-timing, it provides causal information valuable for reconstructing indirect maps of the vicinity of compact objects. To call X-ray polarimetry-timing a young field is somewhat of an understatement, given that the first X-ray mission truly capable of enabling polarimetry-timing analyses has only just launched at the time of writing. Now is therefore an exciting time for the field, in which we have theoretical predictions and are eagerly awaiting data. This Chapter discusses the theoretical expectations and also describes the data analysis techniques that can be used.