The period distribution of close binaries, cataclysmic variables, novae andsingle-degenerate SN1a progenitor candidates is largely controlled bymagnetically-driven mass and angular momentum loss (AML) from the M dwarfsecondary. The mass loss rates for these spun-up stars remain essentiallyunknown and impossible to observe directly, while AML presciptions for CVsdiffer by orders of magnitude. One way to measure the mass loss rate is toobserve the dM wind accrete onto its WD companion in a pre-CV very close toRoche Lobe overflow but lacking the obscuring complications and emission from anaccretion disk. The best-studied nearby pre-CV is QS Vir. MHD models tailored tothe system will enable the first quasi-direct measurements of the mass loss and AML from a CV-like binary.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2015-01-04T12:36:42Z/2015-07-10T04:50:20Z
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 Jeremy Drake, 2016, 'The first mass and angular momentum loss measurements for a CV-like binary', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-69m7qp5
