Cooling of Superfluid Neutron Stars

Cooling of neutron stars (NSs) with the cores composed of neutrons, protons, and electrons is analyzed. The main cooling regulators are discussed: opening of direct Urca process in a NS central kernel; superfluidity of nucleons in NS interiors; surface layers of light (accreted) elements; strong surface magnetic fields. An emphasis is paid on the cooling scenario with strong ${}^1$S${}_0$ pairing of protons and weak ${}^3$P${}_2$ pairing of neutrons in the NS core, as well as strong ${}^1$S${}_0$ pairing of neutrons in the NS crust. The theory predicts three types of isolated cooling middle-aged NSs with distinctly different properties: low-mass, slowly cooling NSs; medium-mass, moderately cooling NSs; massive, rapidly cooling NSs. The theory is compared with observations of isolated NSs – pulsars and radio quiet NSs in supernova remnants. The constraints on physical properties of NSs which can be inferred from such a comparison are outlined.