We propose to observe the bright X-ray source 4U1820-30 as optimal candidate tomap the chemistry of the diffuse Galactic Interstellar Medium (ISM). Using theunique XMM-Newton performances, we will study the two phases of ISM (gas anddust) focusing on O, Fe, Mg, and Si. The observation of 4U1820-30 will provide arobust and quantitative estimate on how homogeneous the distribution of theseelements are in the diffuse ISM. The simultaneous analysis of scattering andabsorption has been already successful for another XMM-Newton target (Cyg X-2,Costantini et al. 2005), unveiling for the first time features from the IDconstituents.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2009-04-02T11:22:55Z/2009-04-03T00:42:52Z
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 Elisa Costantini, 2010, 'Mapping the chemistry of interstellar dust through the halo of 4U1820-30', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-4yl680b
