Recent Chandra, Swift and Gemini observations of 1RXS J141256.0+792204 suggestthat it is a new Isolated Neutron Star (INS). However, the INS nature of thissource, dubbed Calvera, relies only on its large X-ray-to-optical flux ratio. Anidentification with an X-ray dim INS or a magnetar seems unlikely while thatwith a Compact Central Object or an old solitary ms-pulsar appears moreplausible. Here we propose a 28 ks observation to obtain the first high-qualityX-ray spectrum of Calvera and to perform an accurate timing analysis. The newX-ray data will clarify whether Calvera is an ordinary member of one of thealready known INS classes or, more intriguing, if it is one of the long soughtmissing links required to unify the different INS classes in a common scenario.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2009-08-31T07:07:52Z/2009-10-10T12:26:09Z
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 Silvia Zane, 2010, 'Is Calvera riding against the Magnificent Seven', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-4qc7poh
