Stories from XMM-English

ESA's X-ray Multi Mirror Observatory (XMM), now renamed XMM-Newton, was launched by Ariane 5 on December 9th 1999. The most sensitive X-ray satellite yet, it carries three advanced x-ray telescopes that look at millions of X-ray sources in the Universe. Each telescope bears 58 high-precision mirrors which reflect X-rays onto sensors giving XMM capacity for long, uninterrupted observations at very high levels of sensitivity. This index provides background information on XMM technology, the construction of XMM, and its role within space science. It contains some highly-animated graphics, live pre-launch footage, and instructive commentary in English, in a series of 9 self-standing chapters arranged as follows: AN OBSERVATORY IN SPACE: why we need XMM, what it will do, how it will work. [This chapter also found in XMM Campaign Video] NEWS OF EXPLODED STARS - how a supernova is formed, and how XMM will study them. [This chapter also found in XMM Campaign Video] WAYS OF LOOKING - a description of XMM' technology, and its process of observation. GIANT BLACK HOLES - a description of black holes and XMM's capacity to look at the X-rays they emit. GOLDEN EYES - the construction of XMM. VAMPIRE STARS - a description of vampire stars. X RAY VISION - a description of XMM's instruments, and what they can do, including the Reflection Grating Spectrometer(RGS) and the European Photon Imaging Camera(EPIC). THE MAKING OF XMM - includes XMM construction footage; X-ray testing and calibration; spacecraft construction; vibration testing at ESTEC; transportation of XMM to Kourou via barge, lorry and the MM Toucan. THE BIG PICTURE - an overview of possibilities for space observation and research using XMM.