Supergiant Fast X-ray Transients (SFXT) are very variable high mass X-raybinaries in our galaxy. Two models have been proposed to interpret theirbehavior: (i)a gating mechanism, involving either the centrifugal barrier orultramagnetic neutron stars (magnetars); (ii)an extermely clumpy wind from thesupergiant companion. Here we propose to study the quiescent emission of threeSFXTs. By making a comparison between their quiescence and outburst spectra andsearching for pulsations and column density variations, we will test theapplicability of the above models. These sources might well provide the veryfirst opportunity to detect and study magnetars in binary systems. In any case,very crucial information will be obtained to test the prediction of modern theories of radiatively-driven winds.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2010-03-15T13:27:06Z/2010-03-22T01:22:43Z
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, Mr Enrico Bozzo, 2011, 'Unveiling the mystery of supergiant fast x-ray transients', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-tijxqde
