Pulsars, transients and relativistic astrophysics

Abstract:

We have conducted observations of the nearby (11.46 ly) star system Procyon, using MeerKAT’s UHF (544–1087 MHz) receivers. We produce full-Stokes time and frequency integrated continuum images, as well as total intensity time series imaging at 8 s cadence, and full-Stokes vector-averaged dynamic spectra from the visibilities in order to search for transient activity such as flaring events. We detect no significant radio emission from the system, and estimate an upper limit on the circular polarization fraction of 65% (3σ confidence level). A comparison with previous Very Large Array observations places a 3σ lower limit on the spectral index between 815.5 and 8400 MHz of 0.26, however long-term significant variability over the last 33 yr cannot be ruled out without further, regular radio monitoring of the system.