Our XMM-Newton observations of dwarf nova OY Car have revealed a possible WDspin period at 0.41 of the orbital period (Ramsay et al. 2001a). Now we plan to observe a set of other dwarf novae below the period gap in order to searchfor WD spin periods. If they are detectable in X-rays, it immediatedly impliesthat the white dwarfs in these systems are at least weakly magnetic. This wouldextend the spectrum of magnetic CV.s into even weaker field systems than theintermediate polars. We will also use our accretion disc structure modellingcodes, together with combined X-ray and OM light curves, to retrieve informationon the 3D structure of the discs in these systems.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2002-10-05T07:02:40Z/2002-10-05T17:17:46Z
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 Pasi Hakala, 2003, 'Spin periods and accretion disc structure in CV.s below the period gap', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-d38oh8y
