Ultraluminous X-ray sources (ULX) are an intriguing new class of objectdiscovered in X-ray imaging observations of nearby galaxies. Here we proposeXMM-NEWTON observations of two of the currently best-studied ULX, NGC 4559 X-1and NGC 5204 X-1. We will use the EPIC CCD cameras to obtain high quality X-rayspectra and, through repeat observations, investigate their spectralvariability. In particular, we will be looking for behavior that could underlinesimilarities between ULX and Galactic X-ray binaries with jets, such as themicroquasars. The OM will provide UV colours for the blue counterpart to NGC5204 X-1, and allow a search for a similar counterpart to NGC 4559 X-1. Thisprogramme will provide us with considerable new insight on the ULX phenomenon.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2003-01-06T01:07:32Z/2003-04-25T18:46:20Z
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 Timothy Roberts, 2004, 'Probing the nature of ultraluminous X-ray sources with XMM-NEWTON', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-zbcqigg
