We propose a coordinated observing campaign to study the X-ray emissions fromthe Saturnian system with XMM-Newton (4 observations of 39 ks each), whilemaking in-situ particle and field measurements, and remote sensing observationsat UV, visible and IR wavelengths, with Cassini. Our aim is to investigate theChandra detection of strong variability in Saturn.s X-ray emission from both theplanetary disk and the auroral zones, and the faint X-ray emission from therings. Probable candidates for the variability are solar wind, solarirradiation, and magnetospheric plasma. This unique coordinated campaign ofXMM-Newton and Cassini observations will provide crucial data for understandingthe physics of X-ray production at Saturn and its rings.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2005-04-21T22:01:32Z/2005-10-29T13:42:39Z
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 Graziella Branduardi-Raymont, 2008, 'A Coordinated XMM-Newton--Cassini Study of the Saturnian System', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-w1louxa
