NICER observation list: Target ID 261001

We request 40ksec to secure NICER observations of the Hyades (DAZ+K2V) 12.5-hr eclipsing binary V471 Tau. V471 Tau is an astrophysical lab for testing theories of binary star evolution, stellar physics as well as hosting a probable brown dwarf. We propose to capitalize on NICER s unique X-ray capabilities to secure rapid X-ray observations, crucial for characterizing the 9.25-min X-ray flux modulations seen previously that are theorized to arise from wind accretion on the WD s displaced magnetic poles relative to its rotation poles. The WD s rotation period also serves as an independent clock to search for the Light Travel Time Effect from the movement of the EB s barycenter by a brown dwarf. A 15.5-yr X-ray cycle will also be studied.