6. From Sco X-1 to Calibration: Probing the Mirror Misalingment of XMM-Newton

ESA supervisor: Felix Meeker-Fuerst
Collaborator(s): Ivan Valtchanov

Site: ESAC

ESA’s XMM-Newton observatory has been a cornerstone of high-energy astrophysics for over two decades, enabling detailed studies of black holes, supernova remnants, and galaxy clusters. Its three gold-coated X-ray telescopes, consisting of arrays of concentring mirror shells, continue to deliver high-quality data, but recent observations showed some unexpected features that might impact the scientific accuracy.

The telescope mirrors were extensively characterized on the ground, and a model based on those measurements has been used throughout the mission. To update that model, we recently obtained off-axis observations of one of the brightest X-ray sources in the sky: Sco X-1. The data show characteristic single reflection rings from the mirror shells. Based on a preliminary analysis, we found a significant difference between the intensity of the rings depending on the source’s position relative to the optical axis. This asymmetry is not captured in the current telescope model. 

In this trainee project, the successful candidate will use a ray-tracing simulator software to investigate which parts of the telescope and mirror model need to be updated to explain the observed asymmetry. The results will have a direct impact on the throughput function and may lead to improved accuracy in XMM-Newton’s scientific data products. The next step will be to determine whether all three XMM-Newton telescopes require similar adjustments or have separate issues.

The candidate will work in close collaboration with calibration experts at ESAC and the Max-Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics in Germany. The project sits at the intersection between engineering and science and is therefore suited for any candidate curious about X-ray optics, X-ray astronomy, and modern satellite operations. The expected duration is 6 months, providing time for the candidate to become familiar with XMM-Newton and the necessary software, and to work towards obtaining results.

Project duration: 6 months.

Desirable expertise or programming language:

  • Enthusiasm and curiosity for exploring scientific data.
  • The trainee should be comfortable with working in an international environment.
  • Some experience with command line computing (e.g. terminal, Unix).
  • A scripting language (e.g. python) is beneficial.
  • Basic knowledge about X-ray telescopes and X-ray data is desirable, but not required.

To apply for this project please fill in an online application form through the following link.

To see the full list of Internships available at ESA please go to our website for ESA Career Opportunities.