We propose to carry out EPIC imaging spectroscopy of a sample of massiveWolf-Rayet stars known to be episodic dust makers (EDM). Thanks to the excellentEPIC sensitivity, we will: (i) obtain good quality spectra of these EDMs yetundetected with the modern X-ray observatories; (ii) deduce the plasmaparameters in their X-ray emitting region; (iii) test the current paradigm thatthe EDMs are binary systems. Finally, even non-detections will provide us withcrucial information about the physics of these objects.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2013-10-09T17:00:47Z/2013-10-10T07:44:07Z
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 Svetozar ZHEKOV, 2014, 'X-rays from Wolf-Rayet Stars: Episodic Dust Makers', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-4bt8gj7
