We propose to survey, in X-rays, the young (250 Myr) open cluster NGC 1039. Itsunique astrophysical importance lies in its intermediate age, and the fact thatROSAT X-ray observations already exist of the similarly aged (220 Myr) NGC 6475cluster. The X-ray characteristics of these middle-aged open clusters can thenbe compared to ROSAT (and/or XMM/CHANDRA) observations of the young Alpha Persei(50 Myr), Pleiades (100 Myr) and the older Hyades (700 Myr) clusters. Using thissuite of data, we will be able to delineate the early-time rotation-age-magneticactivity paradigm, so that we can make inferences and physical models of thephysical parameters governing low-mass solar-type star evolution during theearly (< 700 Myr) main sequence.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2003-02-12T19:06:37Z/2003-02-13T07:15:15Z
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 David James, 2004, 'Coronal Activity in the Young Galactic Open Cluster NGC 1039 SQUARE_BRACKET_OPENM34SQUARE_BRACKET_CLOSE', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-otrfv2o
