We propose to obtain X-ray spectra of transient black hole binaries (BHBs) inquiescence. The spectra are expected to provide a severe test of the Comptonorigin of X-rays from such sources, as expected from accretion-based models. Atvery low accretion rates, a Comptonized spectrum is expected to appear stronglycurved in a log-log plot. However, there is already tentative evidence for thepower-law shape of the quiescent X-ray spectrum. If confirmed, it would favor ajet origin of the X-ray emission. However, the quality of existing data is stillquite poor. The deep observations proposed here will allow a detailed look at the roles of accretion flows and jets in quiescent BHBs and thus cast light on the issues of accretion-jet coupling and particle acceleration in such systems.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2007-02-22T15:32:57Z/2007-03-28T03:08:31Z
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 Wei Cui, 2009, 'X-rays from Quiescent Black Holes: Accretion or Jet Powered', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-wp6eozj
