ASCA observations of 1993 revealed a point source, AX J1845.0-0258, whose 7 speriod and spectrum strongly suggest that it is an anomalous X-ray pulsar (AXP).However, the brightest object seen in further observations with various X-raymissions in the ASCA error circle was a factor of 15 fainter, too faint todetect pulsations and confirm that this source is a transient AXP (TAXP) in aquiescent state. In the proposed observation we will either detect pulsationsfrom the TAXP candidate, thus measuring the period derivative, age and magneticfield, or prove that this object is not related to the originally observed X-raypulsar. In the latter case, we will either detect an even fainter actual TAXP orestablish a stringent upper limit on its quiescent flux.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2010-04-14T19:16:37Z/2010-04-16T23:00:53Z
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 George Pavlov, 2011, 'The Elusive Transient AXP', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-s55369r
