We propose to carry out EPIC imaging spectroscopy of two symbiotic stars, AP Pegand T CrB, that show considerable recent activity. The EPIC data will providethe first X-ray spectrum of AG Peg with a very good quality allowing us to studyits X-ray properties in detail, especially, in the current transition of thisobject from symbiotic nova to a classical symbiotic system. Similarly, we willobtain a good quality spectrum of T CrB in its super-active state the object hasentered in 2015. This will be very useful to confront its X-ray propertiesbetween quiescent and super-active states. The EPIC observations will reveal ifshort-time (hours) X-ray variability (flickering) is present in both objects.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2017-11-16T16:17:45Z/2018-01-30T12:12:23Z
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, 2019, 'Symbiotics in transition: X-rays from AG Peg and T CrB', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-t2rum7j
