Understanding the physics of the accretion flows around and onto compact objectis a key goal of X-ray astrophysics. We propose to use XMM-Newton to obtaindetailed X-ray spectra during the onset of an outburst of the soft X-raytransient Aql X-1. Exploiting regular and frequent optical monitoring of Aql X-1already being carried out by members of our group, it will be possible toobserve the onset of an outburst with XMM-Newton. This will provide direct testsof the disk instability model commonly used to describe the behavior of softX-ray transients and will give new insights into the physics of the accretionflow.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2005-04-07T12:55:15Z/2005-04-16T02:59:28Z
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 Philip Kaaret, 2006, 'Onset of an Outburst from Aql X-1', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-3tq6oai
