GT-The complex region centered on the massive star Eta Carinae is a naturaltarget for the RGS: the object harbors a point-like X-ray source, as well as aresolved X-ray nebula, with an unusual and likely complex spectrum. CCDspectroscopy with ASCA has revealed (expected) large abundance anomalies, suchas a strong N overabundance. The RGS has much higher effective spectralresolving power than any other astrophysical spectrometer for study of theextended nebula, and can address such issues as the line excitation mechanism(s)and non-equilibrium effects, and their distribution among the various spatialcomponents. A proper understanding of these issues is a prerequisite forreliable abundance determinations.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2000-07-26T04:59:20Z/2000-07-28T03:16:30Z
Version
17.56_20190403_1200
Mission Description
The European Space Agencys (ESA) X-ray Multi-Mirror Mission (XMM-Newton) was launched by an Ariane 504 on December 10th 1999. XMM-Newton is ESAs second cornerstone of the Horizon 2000 Science Programme. It carries 3 high throughput X-ray telescopes with an unprecedented effective area, and an optical monitor, the first flown on a X-ray observatory. The large collecting area and ability to make long uninterrupted exposures provide highly sensitive observations. Since Earths atmosphere blocks out all X-rays, only a telescope in space can detect and study celestial X-ray sources. The XMM-Newton mission is helping scientists to solve a number of cosmic mysteries, ranging from the enigmatic black holes to the origins of the Universe itself. Observing time on XMM-Newton is being made available to the scientific community, applying for observational periods on a competitive basis.
European Space Agency, Dr Albert Brinkman, 2002, 'GT Observations of Hot Stars: An RGS Spectrum of Eta Carinae', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-c24a4a3
