We propose a 72 ks XMM-Newton EPIC observation toward G7.7-3.7, a candidatehistorical supernova remnant (SNR), with the aim of pinning down its associationto the guest star which appeared in 386 CE for 2--4 months. If confirmed,G7.7-3.7 would be one of four historical Type-II SNRs, enlarging the smallsample that is used for studying the endpoints of massive stars. G7.7-3.7 may bethe only known SNR to be produced from a rare, low-luminosity Type-IIP SN (5% ofall Type-II SNe) and is therefore worthy of detailed study. The proposedXMM-Newton observation will greatly improve the accuracy of the SNR/shock ageand allow us to study the SNR s properties and search for synchrotron emission.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2020-03-12T00:07:48Z/2020-03-12T22:31:08Z
Version
18.02_20200221_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 Ping Zhou, 2021, 'Is G7.7-3.7 the remnant of a low-luminosity historical supernova in 386 CE', 18.02_20200221_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.57780/esa-8gb6iwo
