We propose observations of the nearby galaxies NGC 5055, NGC 1316, and NGC 1407.Each of these galaxies hosts Ultra-Luminous X-ray sources (ULXs) with softspectra (power law spectral indices > 3 or, equivalently, optically-thin plasmatemperatures < 2 keV). The high throughput and broad bandpass of XMM-Newtonwill be able to distinguish between competing models for soft spectra ULXphenomena including ultra-soft accretion disk components in intermediate-massblack holes, emission-line supernova plasma, super-soft sources, and soft X-raytransients.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2006-12-07T17:36:56Z/2007-06-19T14:45:26Z
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 Kajal Ghosh, 2008, 'Probing the X-ray nature of soft-spectrum Ultra-luminous X-ray sources', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-msjr3ot
