We propose XMM-Newton observations to examine the nature of the unidentified VHEgamma-ray source HESS J1702-420. The VHE morphology shows a tail towards PSRJ1702-4128, and we propose deeper X-ray observations of a field containing thispulsar to confirm if it exhibits an asymmetric X-ray nebula, for which there issome evidence in archival ASCA data. If so, this would be the oldest and leastenergetic pulsar yet found to power a VHE and X-ray nebula. The proposedexposure should also allow a confirmation of the more localised excess seen atthe pulsar position with Chandra. Finally, the proposed observation would alsomore than triple the XMM-Newton exposure on G344.7-0.1, a supernova remnantwhich shows some evidence of containing a plerionic component.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2007-09-13T03:48:39Z/2007-09-13T14:34:48Z
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 Yves Gallant, 2008, 'The unidentified source HESS J1702-420 and the possible nebula of PSR J1702-4128', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-ps4ky13
