A large number of dormant black hole binaries is predicted to exist in theGalaxy. We propose observations of a small sample of recently discoveredbinaries where the optical analysis shows the presence of a compact object witha mass exceeding 3 solar masses. Accretion from the weak wind of the stellarcompanion is predicted to result in detectable X-rays, which would prove theexistence of a black hole in these systems.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2009-07-09T08:14:54Z/2009-07-09T20:56:51Z
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 Stephan Geier, 2010, 'The Dark Side Exposed: Hidden Neutron Stars and Black Holes in Hot sdB Binaries', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-9dkmg0o
