Neutron Star/Supernova Remnant Associations

TL;DR

This paper reviews the evidence linking neutron stars to supernova remnants, highlighting that young neutron stars can differ significantly from radio pulsars, challenging traditional views of neutron star evolution.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive review of neutron star/supernova remnant associations and discusses the diversity of young neutron star properties beyond radio pulsars.

Findings

Associations support links between neutron stars and supernova remnants.

Young neutron stars can have properties unlike typical radio pulsars.

The Crab pulsar may not be representative of all young neutron stars.

Abstract

The evidence for associations between neutron stars and supernova remnants is reviewed. After summarizing the situation for young radio pulsars, I consider the evidence from associations that young neutron stars can have properties very different from those of radio pulsars. This, though still controversial, shakes our simple perception of the Crab pulsar as prototypical of the young neutron star population.