We propose an XMM-Newton observation of the peculiar radio loud Be-star LS I +61303 very likely associated with the gamma-ray source 2CG 135+1. The main aim ofour investigation is to study the long term time variability and the broad-bandspectral properties, as well to perform a sensitive search for pulsations in theEPIC data. This source might contain an energetic pulsar enshrouded in thenebular material from the wind of the massive companion and producinghigh-energy radiation by shock emission. A clarification of the nature of LS I+61 303 is of great importance for the interpretation of unidentified andtime-variable galactic gamma-ray sources. The proposed investigation could becoordinated with an INTEGRAL observation approved with priority B.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2005-01-27T17:40:46Z/2005-01-28T07:41:04Z
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 MARCO TAVANI, 2006, 'AN XMM AND INTEGRAL DEEP LOOK TO THE RADIO LOUD X-GAMMA-RAY BINARY LS I +61 303', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-1shgju7
