Equation of state and core behavior of neutron star matter

Determine the equation of state of neutron star matter over the relevant density ranges and ascertain whether qualitative changes or discontinuities occur approaching the core, integrating QCD-based theory with multi-messenger and gravitational-wave observations.

Background

The paper emphasizes QCD’s growing role in astrophysics, particularly for neutron stars, which probe extreme nuclear matter conditions. Despite having the governing QCD equations, translating them into reliable macroscopic predictions for neutron star structure is currently inadequate.

Key unresolved issues include a definitive equation of state across interior densities and the potential for phase transitions or discontinuities toward the core, questions now accessible to multi-messenger astronomy and gravitational-wave data but still lacking convincing answers.