General Relativistic Geodetic Spin Precession in Binary Pulsar B1913+16: Mapping the Emission Beam in Two Dimensions

Abstract

We have carefully measured the pulse profile of the binary pulsar PSR B1913+16 at 21 cm wavelength for 20 years, in order to search for variations that result from general relativistic geodetic precession of the spin axis. The profile width is found to decrease with time in its inner regions, while staying essentially constant on its outer skirts. We fitted these data to a model of the beam shape and precession geometry. Four equivalent solutions are found, but evolutionary considerations and polarization data select a single preferred model. While the current data sample only a limited range of latitudes owing to the long precessional cycle, the preferred model shows a beam elongated in the latitudinal direction and hourglass-shaped.