We will apply the proven optical technique of eclipse mapping to X-rayobservations of disc-accreting white dwarfs. Our pilot XMM-Newton study of asingle system has proved that we can measure the extent of the shock-heatedplasma around the compact object. The more sensitive observations proposed herewill measure the shape of the eclipse ingress and egress - and thus the extentAND distribution of the X-ray emitting plasma - in two more systems. We willalso study the coronal X-ray emission of the secondary star revealed during theeclipse.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2003-07-12T05:52:42Z/2003-07-12T21:18:21Z
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 Peter Wheatley, 2004, 'X-ray eclipse mapping of disc-accreting white dwarfs', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-9ktpk3r
