We propose an in-depth X-ray study of fast-evolving, blue optical transients(FBOTs). FBOTs are a new class of explosions with luminosities and time scalesof evolution that challenge traditional Supernova (SN) models. To date, FBOTshave mostly been studied in the optical/UV, which is of thermal origin and it isnot sensitive to the nature of the underlying energy source and properties ofthe explosion.s fastest ejecta. Here we propose to capitalize on our recentdiscovery of the first X-ray emission from a FBOT and start the first X-raymonitoring campaign of nearby FBOTs. The primary goals are to (i) obtain thefirst constraints on the mass-loss history of the stellar progenitors of a newclass of SN explosions; (ii) test the presence of engines driving the explosions.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2018-07-23T00:09:22Z/2019-01-20T19:36:45Z
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, Prof Raffaella Margutti, 2020, 'X-ray Observations of Rapid comma Luminous and Blue Stellar Explosions', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-9dpt8bi
