NICER observation list: Target ID 258504

Abstract

The launch of NICER brings unprecedented capabilities for observing magnetic cataclysmic variables ( polars'). Quasi-periodic oscillations (QPOs) of 1-3 s have been observed with fast optical photometry. Existing hydrodynamic models of the accretion unify the source spectrum with predictions for a 2-channel (X-ray and optical) QPO. The X-ray QPO has never been detected, but observing capabilities have been limited. We propose NICER observations of the five polars that have exhibited optical QPOs, complemented by optical coverage from SAAO, both for cross correlation of variability and to understand source state changes. The campaign will compare both the spectral and temporal aspects with models. Detecting even one X-ray QPO would be an enormous advance.
Obsid RA DEC l b Start End Exposure Number of modules Status of Processing Date of Processing Public date
2585040101 166.108 45.049 165.83595 62.15114 58667.9373 58667.9512 0.00000 50 VALIDATED 58671.6 58681
2585040102 166.113 45.050 165.82985 62.15339 58668.0003 58668.0153 0.00000 50 VALIDATED 58672.6 58682
2585040103 166.108 45.056 165.82239 62.14800 58676.1627 58676.3081 2207.00000 52 VALIDATED 58680.6 58690