NICER observation list: Target ID 855528

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
8555280101 204.524 6.252 333.012 66.360 60765.9074 60765.9143 562.0 50 5 VALIDATED 60776.8 60959
8555280201 204.523 6.256 333.014 66.364 60767.9088 60767.9206 449.0 50 4 VALIDATED 60779.7 60961
8555280301 204.523 6.256 333.014 66.364 60769.9095 60769.9176 118.0 50 4 VALIDATED 60779.9 60963