We propose a 30ks XMM-Newton observation of the tidal interaction region betweenthe galaxies M 81 and NGC 3077. This region contains an overdensity of X-raysources (Bi, Arp, and Zimmermann 1994) in and around the HI bridge between thegalaxies. Our observation will 1) determine whether these sources are indeedassociated with the M 81 system, 2) examine the physical nature of the sources(e.g. distinguish XRBs from SNRs), and 3) study differences in the X-raypopulations of the tidal debris region and NGC 3077, and how this relates to thestar formation history of the M 81 system. We also request a 10ks Chandra HRCobservation in order to obtain sub-arcsecond astrometry for the X-ray sources,which will allow us to search for optical counterparts.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2004-03-26T22:30:01Z/2004-03-27T07:26:55Z
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, Prof MARTIN WARD, 2005, 'DISCRETE X-RAY SOURCES BETWEEN M 81 AND NGC 3077', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-gp38j1m
