Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astrophysics
Scientific paper
2006-01-04
Ann.Rev.Astron.Astrophys.44:17-47,2006
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astrophysics
34 pages, including 7 color figures. To appear in volume 44 of Annual Review of Astronomy & Astrophysics (2006). Version with
Scientific paper
10.1146/annurev.astro.44.051905.
Pulsars steadily dissipate their rotational energy via relativistic winds. Confinement of these outflows generates luminous pulsar wind nebulae, seen across the electromagnetic spectrum in synchrotron and inverse Compton emission, and in optical emission lines when they shock the surrounding medium. These sources act as important probes of relativistic shocks, particle acceleration and of interstellar gas. We review the many recent advances in the study of pulsar wind nebulae, with particular focus on the evolutionary stages through which these objects progress as they expand into their surroundings, and on morphological structures within these nebulae which directly trace the physical processes of particle acceleration and outflow. We conclude by considering some exciting new probes of pulsar wind nebulae, including the study of TeV gamma-ray emission from these sources, and observations of pulsar winds in close binary systems.
Gaensler Bryan M.
Slane Patrick O.
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