We propose XMM-Newton observations of the Compton-thick wind-fed SupergiantX-ray binary (SGXB) 4U 1909+07 (hereafter 4U1909) for 20(35) ks during themaximum (minimum) of its 15.2 day superorbital cycle. With the first XMMobservation of the source we will test the physical mechanisms driving its 15.2day modulation, in particular whether it is caused by Corotation InteractionRegions (hereafter, CIRs). By constraining the Fe fluorescence complex atdifferent superorbital phases we will probe large-scale (high density andvelocity) structures threading the wind of the B0-3 I donor star. Additionally,the large effective area and excellent timing resolution of EPIC will allow usto probe superorbital changes in the size and geometry of the circumstellar material by measuring changes in pul
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2021-10-03T13:19:30Z/2021-10-08T11:02:38Z
Version
19.17_20220121_1250
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 JOEL COLEY, 2022, 'Probing the Superorbital Modulation in the Supergiant X-ray binary 4U 1909+07', 19.17_20220121_1250, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.57780/esa-fqavuxw
