Parkes observations for project P602 semester 2008APRS_01
Only two magnetars are known to emit radio pulsations. This emission (discovered at Parkes) is transient and has very unusual and variable properties compared to ordinary pulsars (flat spectrum, changing pulse profiles and fluxes). The torque experienced by these stars (as inferred from their changing period derivative) also varies enormously. Here we propose to continue studying these remarkable neutron stars. For XTE J1810-197 we require only monthly observations, mainly to monitor its flux density and polarimetry (we obtain the required weekly timing measurements at the GBT). For 1E 1547.0-5408, which cannot be observed with northern telescopes, we require weekly timing measurements, and monthly flux/polarimetry measurements. As part of this study, we are also monitoring both pulsars with the Swift X-ray satellite.