We propose to observe with XMM three Millisecond X-ray Pulsar Transients for 20ks each in order to measure the source luminosity during quiescence. Since forthese sources the spin period is known, this will allow us to put a firm upperlimit on the neutron star magnetic field strength. This study will providevaluable information about the link between low mass X-ray binaries and binarymillisecond radio pulsars. Moreover, the study of the cooling of the neutronstar during quiescence is a powerful tool to investigate its physical structureand to determine r^ant parameters like its mass and its equation of state.The XMM observation will also provide a precise position of these sourcesallowing the identification and/or study of their optical, infrared and radio counterparts.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2004-09-15T01:19:56Z/2004-09-15T07:25:11Z
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 TIZIANA DI SALVO, 2005, 'NEUTRON STAR X-RAY TRANSIENTS IN QUIESCENCE: TO ACCRETE OR NOT TO ACCRETEquestionMark', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-sq96uez
