ASCA and BeppoSAX observations of a number of ultra-compact (P<1hr)X-ray binaries have revealed two possible spectral differences comparedto other LMXRB systems. These are (1) the presence of a discrete feature near0.7 keV (attributed to Ne) and (2) their best-fit parameter values when fit with a disk-blackbody and Comptonized continuum. We wish to clarify and extend the emerging picture of a spectral signature for the ultra-compact systems using XMM--Newton. The proposed observations will allow a clear confirmation of such a signature which will, in turn, allow the nature of a LMXRB to be determined from its spectral characteristics.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2003-09-27T09:04:31Z/2003-10-09T10:43:29Z
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 Lara Sidoli, 2004, 'A POSSIBLE SPECTRAL SIGNATURE OF ULTRACOMPACT LOW MASS X-RAY BINARIES', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-nbrllg7
