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Relativistic Spin-Orbit Precession in the Double Pulsar

Double neutron star systems containing a radio pulsar are unique astrophysical tools for testing general relativity with the high-precision timing of their orbital dynamics. Recently, we have been testing the relativistic spin-orbit interaction in the double pulsar PSR J0737-3039A/B -- the first known binary system containing two neutron stars both visible as radio pulsars -- using a method that does not rely on the radio timing. The orbital inclination is so nearly edge-on that one of the pulsars gets eclipsed when it passes behind the projected magnetosphere of its companion. Modeling the eclipse light curve allows us to infer the spatial orientation of the companion relative to the orbit. Using this proxy we have been able to directly measure the relativistic spin precession resulting from the spin-orbit coupling in the system. It was possible to determine that the rate of spin precession and its direction are consistent with the prediction of general relativity. Additionally, this work permitted us to derive a theory-independent constraint on the spin-orbit coupling parameter of a strongly self-gravitating body.

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