We shall obtain EPIC observations of two fields in Serpens centered on newlydiscovered regions of recent star formation. Spitzer IR maps of these regionsreveal dense molecular gas and numerous previously unknown PMS stars, diverse inboth mass and age. Comparison of the IR disk and X-ray coronal properties willallow detailed characterization of the individual stars and investigation ofevolutionary trends in different regions. Young stars are strong X-ray emittersthroughout their PMS evolution, from embedded protostars to older dust-free (andhence IR-faint) PMS stars. X-ray emission provides an excellent method oftracing the entire PMS population and investigating the star formation historiesof these regions and the processes controlling the fragmentation and formation of stars.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2008-04-16T17:32:13Z/2008-04-17T07:57:29Z
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 Geoffrey Blake, 2009, 'Newly-Discovered Regions of Star Formation in Serpens and Perseus', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-dkaucsv
