NICER observation list: Target ID 855533

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
8555330101 204.464 6.267 332.895 66.400 60766.2417 60766.2500 296.0 50 4 VALIDATED 60776.9 60960
8555330201 204.464 6.267 332.896 66.400 60768.2380 60768.2507 660.0 50 4 VALIDATED 60779.8 60962
8555330301 204.469 6.267 332.905 66.398 60770.2458 60770.2514 43.0 50 2 VALIDATED 60779.9 60964