We propose a novel and decisive experiment that relies on the unrivaled jointcapabilities of XMM and HST. The closest O-type star, zeta Oph, shall beobserved continuously over its rotational period to reveal the physics ofstellar wind heating. We will discriminate between alternative models for X-rayproduction in O stars\: the hot plasma is generated either in stochastic windshocks or in corotating interaction regions. The new superb X-ray image willprobe the physical conditions in the circumstellar matter of an O star. Nosimilar observations were performed before on a massive star. Observing zeta Ophfor 80ks with XMM and 15 HST orbits will allow to study correlated X-ray and UVvariability and achieve a breakthrough in our understanding of O stars.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2020-09-09T12:01:49Z/2020-09-10T14:19:03Z
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 Lidia Oskinova, 2021, 'Tight surveillance of the exemplary O star zeta Ophiuchi with XMM-Newton and HST', 18.02_20200221_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.57780/esa-ok4re5r
