We propose EPIC observations of the ultraluminous X-ray source (ULX) in NGC 5408. Our AO4 pointing has revealed a wealth of new timing properties in this object. We have found the first quasiperiodic oscillation (at 20 mHz)and power spectral break in this source. The power spectrum in the hard X-rayband shows a classic ..flat-topped. noise with a break in the power law veryclose to the 20 mHz QPO. These timing signatures allow the first estimates ofthe mass of the ULX based on comparisons with similar features observed inGalactic black hole systems accreting at high rates.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2008-01-13T17:42:44Z/2008-01-15T03:13:41Z
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 Tod Strohmayer, 2009, 'X-ray Timing Observations of NGC 5408 X-1: Pinning Down the Mass', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-6x2rb1s
