Recent observations have led to a proposed new paradigm in which fast-rotatinglowmass stars host magnetic dynamos that operate in distinct strong and weakmodes; if true, there are large implications for exoplanets. Coronal X-ray datahint at this effect, but no detailed studies have been done. We propose an 80virgulksinvestigation of four nearby cool dwarfs, two from each dynamo mode. All arebright X-ray emitters. The two dynamo modes are associated with different levelsof variability, and XMM-Newton.s large collecting area will allow a sensitivesearch for an X-ray manifestation of this. We will also compare abundances andemission measures using CCD and grating spectra. Our data will test this newparadigm and may provide an important new tool for investigating it.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2014-06-11T23:56:04Z/2014-10-11T00:42:26Z
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 Peter Williams, 2015, 'Investigating a Dynamo Bimodality in Fully Convective Stars with X-rays', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-swlylj7
