We propose 35 ksec observations during the outbursts of very-faint X-raytransients, which are newly identified enigmatic transients which areunderluminous by orders of magnitude compared to the well known brighttransients. The nature of these objects is not clear but they likely harbortransiently accreting compact objects (although some might be transientmagnetars or a type as yet unidentified). Our proposed observations will allowus to study in detail the X-ray spectra of these sources as well as performdetailed timing studies (e.g., to search for pulsations, dips/eclipses, bursts)with which we can significantly improve our understanding of these systems.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2007-02-27T06:07:48Z/2007-02-27T16:56:22Z
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 Rudy Wijnands, 2008, 'XMM-Newton observations of very faint X-ray transients', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-2ddkb7n
