We propose the continuation in AO-2 of an ambitious long-term programme tosurvey the inner regions of the Galaxy using XMM-Newton. Our revised strategyinvolves the mapping of a strip of the Galactic Plane between Galacticlongitudes 6-22 degrees. The XMM observations will surpass current X-ray data bya factor of 100 in sensitivity whilst providing excellent spatial and spectralresolution. Complementary radio, optical and near-IR imaging will provide a keyasset for the interpretation of the X-ray data. This survey will lead to majoradvances in our understanding of accretion processes, star formation, stellarcoronae, SNRs and the hot ISM.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2003-03-08T11:08:05Z/2003-10-12T06:08:26Z
Version
PPS_NOT_AVAILABLE
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, Prof Robert Warwick, 2004, 'Surveying the Galactic Plane with XMM-Newton', PPS_NOT_AVAILABLE, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-mdunq7m
