We propose for a triggered 40 ksec XMM-Newton-observation of the variablesymbiotic X-ray binary 3A 1954+319. Studying the spectral properties of thisneutron star system during a bright phase will help us to understand the physicsof the accretion region as well as the medium originating from the stellar windsurrounding the neutron star. The so far nearly unobserved soft part of thespectrum will provide us with information about the 6.4 keV iron Ka line complexand the temperature and composition of the absorbing medium close tho the X-raysource. Additionally we intend to study the phase resolved behavior of thespectral parameters which are assumed to be strongly dependent on the pulsephase.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2011-10-07T14:48:52Z/2011-10-08T02:44:12Z
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 Sebastian Mueller, 2012, 'The Symbiotic X-ray Binary 3A 1954+319: A close-up view of a slowly rotating Neu', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-mcf4g46
