The X-ray spectra of neutron star LMXBs vary frequently, tracing outcharacteristic Z or atoll tracks on color-color diagrams. However, the drivingforce behind this variability remains unclear. The recent discovery of broad,relativistic Fe K emission lines in these systems may finally provide the key tounlocking this secret. The asymmetric line profile observed is characteristic ofemission from the inner disk around a compact object, where extreme Dopplershifts and gravitational redshifts are at play. Thus, the Fe K line acts as auseful tool to track the extent of the inner disk. With four, 30 ks XMM-Newtonobservations of neutron star LMXB GX 17+2, we will follow the evolution of theinner disk around the color-color diagram, testing how, and if, the inner accretion flow changes.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2010-10-07T03:56:16Z/2011-03-16T10:41:38Z
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 Edward Cackett, 2012, 'Does the Fe K line evolve around the color-color diagram of neutron star GX17+2', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-ysr5pym
