NICER observation list: Target ID 855510

Abstract

We request 200 ks of NICER observing time to study the interaction between the solar wind and two bright comets, C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) and P/2010 H2 (Vales). Utilizing NICER's agility and sensitivity, we aim to compare charge-exchange spectra arising from the comets interaction with varied solar-wind states. Simultaneous observations of both comets at distinct solar latitudes allow us to compare spectra from differing solar-wind conditions. This offers a unique opportunity to map the solar wind during solar maximum and explore charge-exchange reactions in astrophysical plasmas spanning a 0.1 10 MK temperature range. By comparing the cometary spectra we will investigate the source of unexplained emission features between 1-2 keV.
Obsid RA DEC l b Start End Exposure Number of
Modules
Number of
Processing
Status of
Processing
Date of
Processing
Public
date
8555100101 150.607 9.142 229.049 46.289 60764.7469 60764.7521 253.0 50 4 VALIDATED 60775.0 60958
8555100201 150.608 9.142 229.049 46.291 60766.7458 60766.7569 882.0 50 4 VALIDATED 60776.9 60960
8555100301 150.607 9.142 229.048 46.290 60768.7486 60768.7548 472.0 50 4 VALIDATED 60779.8 60962