NICER observation list: Target ID 855522

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
8555220101 150.565 9.150 229.009 46.258 60765.5213 60765.5266 346.0 50 5 VALIDATED 60776.8 60959
8555220201 150.566 9.150 229.010 46.258 60767.5164 60767.5356 1593.0 50 4 VALIDATED 60779.7 60961
8555220301 150.565 9.149 229.010 46.258 60769.5220 60769.5282 463.0 50 4 VALIDATED 60779.9 60963