Neutron Stars and Pulsars (IAU S291) Challenges and Opportunities after 80 Years Proceedings of the International Astronomical Union Symposia and Colloquia Series

IAU Symposium 291 features a rich harvest of recent scientific discoveries and looks forward to the many exciting avenues for future neutron-star research. The volume starts with general, lively, comprehensive introductions to three main themes that successfully communicate the excitement of current pulsar research. The subsequent reviews and contributions on hot topics cover: ongoing searches for pulsars, both radio and gamma-ray; neutron star formation and properties; binary pulsars; pulsar timing and tests of gravitational theories; magnetars; radio transients; radio, X-ray and gamma-ray pulse properties and emission mechanisms; and future facilities. This range of topics clearly illustrates the diverse nature and wide application of neutron-star research. Through a combination of introductory reviews and practically complete coverage of current results from across the electromagnetic spectrum, IAU S291 is the perfect reference for neutron-star researchers and also provides an excellent read for advanced undergraduate and starting graduate students.

1. Pulsar discovery I; 2. Pulsar genesis – neutron-star formation and birth properties; 3. Pulsar discovery II; 4. Pulsar diversity; 5. Binary pulsars; 6. Neutron star vibration and emission; 7. Pulsar timing and testing gravitational theories; 8. Pulsar timing; 9. Pulsars and the interstellar medium; 10. Galactic distribution and evolution of neutron stars; 11. Pulsar magnetosphere and emission mechanisms; 12. Emission mechanisms; 13. Future facilities; Summary; Posters; Author index.