Pioneering high-resolution X-ray spectroscopy of supernova remnants using dispersive spectrometers and the calorimeter onboard ASTRO-H

2015 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 25800119
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Young Scientists (B)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Research Field: Astronomy
• Research Institution: Japan Aerospace EXploration Agency (2014-2015); Institute of Physical and Chemical Research (2013)
• Principal Investigator: Katsuda Satoru 国立研究開発法人宇宙航空研究開発機構, 宇宙科学研究所, 宇宙航空プロジェクト研究員 (50611034)
• Project Period (FY): 2013-04-01 – 2016-03-31
• Keywords: 超新星残骸 / Ｘ線精密分光

Outline of Final Research Achievements

It was generally thought that XMM-Newton’s reflection grating spectrometer (RGS) is applicable only for point-like sources. However, in this research, we have successfully demonstrated that the RGS can provide high-resolution spectra for compact supernova remnants (SNRs) like Kepler’s SNR and SNR 0509-67.5 and compact features in large SNRs such as Puppis A and the Cygnus Loop. The outcomes include establishing charge-exchange X-ray emission in X-ray spectra, revealing 3D geometries of supernova ejecta, and the discovery of N-rich circumstellar medium. These are all new to X-ray astronomy and are scientifically important. In addition, inspired by this X-ray high-resolution spectroscopy, we initiated new high-resolution spectroscopy of SNRs in optical and extreme ultraviolet wavelengths.

Free Research Field

Ｘ線天文学