Thermal Emission from Isolated Neutron Stars: Theory and Observations

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Neutron stars are born during supernova explosions in the collapsing cores of massive stars. They represent ideal probes for investigating a variety of physical problems which cannot be studied in the terrestrial environment. They enable to determine fundamental properties of matter under extreme conditions as encountered in the neutron star interior. For that, the thermal emission from the neutron star surfaces (atmospheres) is the primary source of information. Hence, the basis of such studies is a most realistic modeling of the atmospheres and the radiation transfer. The primary aim of our proposal is the development of new advanced models for neutron star atmospheres. This is essential for the interpretation of latest X-ray observations performed with Chandra and XMM-Newton. We want to use our advanced models in order to elucidate the properties and evolution of neutron stars.