Abstract for Proposal 090230
Dissecting Super Soft Novae Outbursts in vivo
Powered by explosive nuclear burning on the surface of an accreting white
dwarf, SSS spectra consist of atmospheric continuum emission with deep,
blue-shifted, absorption lines that reflect the properties of the hottest
parts of expanding nova ejecta. Past nova SSS grating observations are
highly diverse in their light curves and spectra justifying our request
to continue building a large sample. Highlight results from the growing
sample are (1) obscuration effects shape SSS spectra, from clear view
(SSa) to highly obscured (SSe, e.g., high-inclination systems); (2)
about 25%% of SSS light curves have transient periods 30-80 seconds;
a larger sample is needed to unlock the underlying physical processes;
(3) interstellar absorption lines can benchmark theoretical ISM models.
Details on Observing Strategy and Trigger Criteria
Triggered if a SSS spectrum with count rate >0.5 cps was found with
Swift. Depending on speed class of nova between 1 week and 1 months
response time for the first observation. The second observation some
3-4 weeks later, again depending on the speed class of the nova.