We propose to investigate the nature of three sources recently discovered by theINTEGRAL satellite. The data available to date are not sufficient to reach aconclusion about whether they are high mass X-ray binaries, anomalous X-raypulsars, soft-gamma repeaters, or possibly even background active galacticnuclei. The apparent location in the Norma arm of the Galaxy suggests a link tostar formation activity. XMM-Newton can give crucial information to testhypotheses concerning their nature.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2004-08-19T13:05:25Z/2004-08-20T03:28:55Z
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 LUIGI FOSCHINI, 2005, 'HUNTING THE NATURE OF THE NEW SOURCES DISCOVERED BY INTEGRAL', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-qbnz1t8
