We propose to observe the young (2-6 Myr) open cluster around the hot (O8III)star lambda Orionis. We will obtain a high-resolution spectrum of the centralhot star with RGS as well as EPIC imaging and spectra of the surroundingcluster. Our goal is to study the X-ray properties of the lambda Ori wind and ofpre-main sequence cluster members, and to compare them with those of the twinsigma Ori cluster, in order to investigate the influence of the ambientenvironment on stellar evolution and activity.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2006-09-28T20:46:00Z/2006-09-29T14:21:57Z
Version
PPS_NOT_AVAILABLE
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 Elena Franciosini, 2007, 'The young open cluster around the hot star lambda Orionis', PPS_NOT_AVAILABLE, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-ybq29lh
