We propose to obtain the first high-resolution spectrum of a single Wolf-Rayet(WR) type star. WR stars are immediate progenitors of core-collapse SNe andGRBs. The low-resolution spectra accumulated by XMM-Newton and Chandra revealedthat the X-ray emission of WR stars depends on yet unknown factors - windanisotropy, magnetic field and rotation are possible suspects. The RGS spectrumof the X-ray brightest single WR star, WR 6, analyzed by means of comprehensivemodels, will unveil how X-rays are produced in WR stars. The wind shock originof X-rays will be firmly proved or disproved. The unique capabilities ofXMM-Newton will ^ate our knowledge about massive stars in their latestevolutionary stages to a qualitatively new level.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2010-10-11T02:26:51Z/2010-11-07T08:56:52Z
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 Lidia Oskinova, 2011, 'X-rays at the Latest Stage of a Massive Star.s Life: A thorough study of WR6', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-mqu7s3r
