We propose to utilize the exceptionally favorable observing conditions of Marsfor XMM in June 2014 for detailed studies of solar wind charge exchange (SWCX)induced X-ray emission in its exosphere, accompanied by simultaneous in-situmeasurements of the solar wind with Mars Express. XMM has already provided thefirst direct, unambiguous detection of SWCX emission from the Martian exosphere.This finding has consequences for X-ray astrophysics in general (soft X-raybackground), is important for our understanding of planetary evolution(atmospheric outgassing), and opens up a novel method for remote global imagingof planetary exospheres and their spatial and temporal variability. There willbe no similarly favorable opportunity before 2023.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2014-06-17T23:32:04Z/2014-06-19T15:57:49Z
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 Konrad Dennerl, 2015, 'Simultaneous study of SWCX at Mars near solar maximum with XMM and Mars Express', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-8ukv4ri
