Abstract for Proposal 092242
Shocks in a nova outburst
The X-ray spectra of nova outflows constrain the nova kinematics,
its chemistry and the connections with phenomena observed at other
wavelengths, from gamma-rays to radio. X-ray spectra of the ejecta,
without large contribution of the central source, have been obtained
with the high resolution gratings only for a handful of novae. Because
of the diversity of physical conditions and phenomena in the ejected
plasma, and the complex evolution during the outburst, we propose to
widen the sample with TOO observations of additional suitable targets
in outburst. The trigger will be a nova that is found to be luminous
in X-rays, but is not in the supersoft X-ray phase yet.
Details on Observing Strategy and Trigger Criteria
The trigger will be a nova that is found to be luminous in X-rays,
with Swift XRT count rate > 0.5 cts/s, but is not in the supersoft X-ray
phase yet. The reaction time should vary between 3 and 10 days. The second
observation will be used for the same nova, if luminous for long enough
time, to trace the outburst evolution, or for another suitable target.