Parkes observations for project P885 semester 2018APRS_01

Brief description

We propose to observe PSR J1622-4950 and 1E1547.0-5408 weekly, two
of three magnetars known to currently emit radio pulsations, to
track their rotation, flux density, and polarisation. Less frequently
we will monitor XTE J1810-197, which used to emit radio pulsations,
to be on the lookout for its revival - as just happened with PSR
J1622-4950, which turned on in April 2017 after more than 2 years dormant!
These observations yield a continuous record of torque, illuminating
the continued release of magnetic energy. 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.