Neutron Star Core by Eleanor Hawking

Neutron Star Core explores the ultra-dense heart of neutron stars, objects so compact that a mere teaspoonful would weigh billions of tons on Earth. This interdisciplinary study blends physics and astronomy to unravel the mysteries of matter under extreme conditions, specifically at supranuclear density. One intriguing fact is the potential presence of exotic particles like hyperons and deconfined quarks within the core, challenging our current understanding of nuclear physics. The book emphasizes the equation of state (EoS) as a crucial, yet unresolved, problem, demonstrating how different EoS models impact observable neutron star properties like mass and radius.

The book starts with stellar evolution and essential nuclear physics, gradually building to the complexities of the neutron star core. It presents the subject in three parts: the theoretical framework, observational constraints from X-ray telescopes and gravitational waves, and the implications of various EoS models on astrophysical phenomena like pulsar glitches. By integrating theoretical developments with cutting-edge observational data, Neutron Star Core provides a comprehensive overview for advanced students and researchers, fostering a critical understanding of these cosmic enigmas.