We propose two 20ksec long Target of Opportunity observations on a bright (morethan 200mCrab) black hole transient in outburst, to study the relativistic FeKalpha line profile and its variability in such systems and to perform X-raytiming studies. Fe lines probe the innermost regions of accretion disks wherethe gravitational field is the most intense. To obtain a maximum signal to noiseratio in the line, these observations will be using the modified timing mode ofthe EPIC-pn cameras, recently employed successfully in observations of therelativistic line of Cygnus X-1. The accurate measurement of the line shape willthen lead to constraints on the black hole spin.
Instrument
EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2008-09-29T10:46:51Z/2008-09-29T16:55:59Z
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, Prof Joern Wilms, 2009, 'Testing Strong Gravity in Black Holes with XMM-Newton', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-tzrsjt1
