I have proposed a new interpretation of the X-ray spectra of symbiotic stars:that they are dominated by absorption by the partially-ionised wind of the redgiant, and not by emission from colliding winds as was previously thought.My interpretation predicts that all systems with apparent colliding-wind ROSATspectra should also have hard X-ray emission. I propose XMM-Newton observationsof three bright symbiotic stars aimed at detecting this emission. Once thecolliding-wind model has been disproved these observations will also be used tomodel the partially-ionised absorption which will provide a powerful probe ofthe red giant wind and of wind accretion onto a compact object.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2002-10-14T10:14:54Z/2002-10-14T15:05:12Z
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, 2003, 'The hard X-ray spectra of symbiotic stars: Any need for colliding winds', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-0s9rv7l
