Parkes observations for project P885 semester 2016OCTS

Brief description

We propose to observe 1E 1547.0-5408 weekly, one of two magnetars
known to currently emit radio pulsations, to track its rotation,
flux density, and polarisation. Less frequently we will monitor
PSR J1622-4950 and XTE J1810-197, which used to emit radio pulsations,
to be on the lookout for their revival. After years with unsteady
radio emission, 1E 1547.0-5408 is now detected 100% of the time,
allowing us to obtain a continuous record of its torque which
illuminates the continued release of magnetic energy in the neutron
star. Our broader aims are to develop a better understanding of
the dynamical behaviour of magnetar magnetospheres, and to establish
the conditions under which radio emission takes place therein, in
addition to characterising their variable radio emission in order
to place constraints on the emission mechanisms, which in at least
some respects differ from those of ordinary pulsars.