RXJ0720.4-3125 is a very soft, periodically variable source(P = 8.39 sec). These characteristics, together with the absence of an optical counterpart, lead to the suggestion that this object isweak-field isolated old neutron star, accreting from the ISM.We will use the RGS to perform phase-resolved spectroscopy, using adedicated CCD read-out mode that will yield a phase resolution ofapproximately 0.1. The EPIC cameras will be used to obtain alow spectral resolution, phase resolved soft spectrum.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2000-05-13T01:42:22Z/2000-05-13T20:00:08Z
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, 2001, 'Phase Resolved Soft SPectroscopy of the Isolated Neutron Star RX J0720.4-3125', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-6164h3q
