1E 161348−5055 in the Supernova Remnant RCW 103: A Magnetar in a Young Low‐Mass Binary System?

Abstract

We suggest that the unique X-ray source IE 161348-5055 at the center of the supernova remnant RCW 103 consists of a neutron star in close orbit with a low-mass main-sequence star. The time signature of 6.67 hr is interpreted as the neutron star's spin period. This requires the neutron star to be endowed with a high surface magnetic field of ∼ 1015 G. Magnetic or/and material (propeller) torques are able to rapidly spin the young neutron star down to an asymptotic, equilibrium spin period in close synchronism with the orbital period, similar to what happens in the Polar cataclysmic variables. IE 161348-5055 could be the first case of a magnetar born in a young low-mass binary system. © 2008. The American Astronomical Society. All rights reserved.