M51 ULX-7: super-orbital periodicity and constraints on the neutron star magnetic field


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In the current work we explore the applicability of standard theoretical models of accretion to the observed properties of M51 ULX-7. The spin-up rate and observed X-ray luminosity are evidence of a neutron star with a surface magnetic field of $2-7times10^{13}$ G, rotating near equilibrium. Analysis of the X-ray light-curve of the system (Swift/XRT data) reveals the presence of a $sim$39 d super-orbital period. We argue that the super-orbital periodicity is due to disc precession, and that material is accreted onto the neutron star at a constant rate throughout it. Moreover, by attributing this modulation to the free precession of the neutron star we estimate a surface magnetic field strength of $3-4times10^{13}$ G. The agreement of these two independent estimates provide strong constraints on the surface polar magnetic field strength of the neutron star.

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