Single reflection data is seen as a very useful tool in diagnosing the X-raytelescope parameters. Comparison of data with simulations will allow evaluationof the accuracy of the telescope system within the calibration, and hopefullylead to insights in the absolute flux calibration. Typical single reflectionsseen are those from the hyperbola (those from the parabola are too close) whichoriginate from virgul 20. - 80. off-axis. Archival data shows clear reflection arcsare obtained from off-axis point sources, such as Sco X-1, which, due to itsbrightness, is a useful target in this regard. The pointings will form a cross,centred on Sco X-1, with four arms, each containing a set of seven pointingsat offset angles of 79.0, 71.5, 64.0, 56.5, 49.0, 41.5 and 34.0 arcmins respectively.
Instrument
RGS1, EPN, RGS2, EMOS1, OM, EMOS2
Temporal Coverage
2024-03-04T22:43:03Z/2024-03-08T12:04:52Z
Version
21.23_20231215_1101
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 Peter Kretschmar XMM-Newton MM, 2024, 'NRCO-118: Single reflection arc observations of Sco X-1', 21.23_20231215_1101, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.57780/esa-y990p5r
