GT- We propose to investigate the X-ray properties of the Galactic Centre region as a whole, including the diffuse emission and the compact sourcepopulation. A broad-ranging approach is required to understand this complexenvironment. In particular, we plan to study the relation between the diffuseemission and the compact sources, via Compton diffusion or via the energeticactivity of the Galactic Centre. This region has a high density of discreteX-ray sources and strong diffuse emission extending for about onesquare-degree around the centre. XMM is perfectly suited to the proposedinvestigation through its capability to perform high throughput/high precisionspectro-imaging on both diffuse and point-like sources of emission.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2000-09-11T08:12:59Z/2001-09-04T08:46:07Z
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 Martin Turner, 2002, 'X-Ray Spectro-Imagery of the Galactic Centre Region', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-vauvthd
