We propose a 50 ks EPIC observation of the northern limb of the galacticsupernova remnant G156.2+5.7. The X-ray spectrum of this remnant is dominated bythermal emission, but also shows a non-thermal component that indicatesefficient particle acceleration at the shock front. The proposed observation isaimed at probing the effects of particle acceleration on the thermal propertiesof the post-shock plasma. G156.2+5.7 is a perfect candidate for these studies,being the only remnant with efficient particle acceleration where thermalemission from the post-shock medium has been firmly detected. The newobservation will allow us to constrain the effects of particle acceleration onthe post-shock temperature and density, thus providing a benchmark for the shock modification theories.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2013-02-17T08:48:56Z/2013-02-17T23:29:25Z
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 Marco Miceli, 2014, 'Probing shock modification in G156.2+5.7', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-2ib0bqd
