Searching for Compact Objects in SNRs G27.8+0.6 and G28.8+1.5

Abstract

We analyzed XMM-Newton observations of two center-filled supernova remnants (SNRs), G27.8+0.6 and G28.8+1.5, to search for pulsars/pulsar wind nebulae (PWNe) and other types of neutron stars (NSs) associated with these remnants. We discovered a PWN candidate within the extent of the centrally peaked radio emission of G27.8+0.6. The X-ray morphology of the PWN candidate and its position with respect to the host SNR suggest that the alleged pulsar might be moving away from the SNR's center with a transverse velocity of around 100-200 km s^-1. The majority of the detected X-ray point sources in both fields are classified as main-sequence stars, based on their bright optical counterparts and relatively soft X-ray spectra. The remaining medium-hard and hard sources are most probably either active galactic nuclei or cataclysmic variables, although we cannot completely rule out the possibility that some of these sources are NSs.

Based on observations obtained with XMM-Newton, an ESA science mission with instruments and contributions directly funded by ESA Member States and NASA.