We propose XMM-Newton observations of 6 representative regions of the SMC, withwell constrained stellar populations of ages virgul10Myr to 0.5Gyr. For the firsttime we will observe the X-ray source populations in regions of varying stellarcontent, down to a limiting luminosity of 2x10^{33} erg/s (20 times deeper thanROSAT) in a young star-forming galaxy. We will classify the detected sourcesbased on their optical counterparts, while based on X-ray spectra and timing wewill identify X-ray binary pulsars. We will use these results to investigate theconnection between stellar and XRB populations. These observations will providea picture of the faint XRB populations and will complement similar studies ofother galaxies where these populations cannot be observed.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2006-03-19T14:22:38Z/2006-04-06T10:36:03Z
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 Andreas Zezas, 2007, 'The X-ray source populations of different stellar generations in the SMC', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-ru5a93f
