New Transient XTE J1450-603
ATel #111; C. B. Markwardt (U. Maryland and GSFC), F. E. Marshall and J. H. Swank (GSFC)
on 3 Dec 2002; 21:56 UT
Credential Certification: Craig B. Markwardt (craigm@lheamail.gsfc.nasa.gov)
Subjects: X-ray, Binary, Black Hole, Neutron Star, Transient
Referred to by ATel #: 112
C. B. Markwardt, University of Maryland and Goddard Space Flight
Center (GSFC), F. E. Marshall and J. H. Swank (GSFC), report the
serendipitous discovery of a new transient, designated XTE J1450-603,
by the RXTE PCA during slews between planned targets on Nov 15.5 and
20.2 (UT). A dedicated PCA cross scan occurred on Nov 24.7. From a
global solution of all PCA scanning data, we found a position of
R.A. = 14h50m16s, Decl. = -60o16' (equinox 2000.0), with estimated
99-percent confidence error radii of 3' in R.A. and 5' in Decl. This
position places it about 1 degree from the galactic plane, near
Circinus X-1. A second dedicated RXTE observation occurred on Nov
27.9. The energy spectrum on Nov 27.9 was consistent with being
smooth continuum, such as a power law with photon index 2.2, with no
evidence of iron line emission beyond the galactic diffuse emission
level. The X-ray flux ranged from 3.5 to 17 mCrab (2-10 keV), varying
significantly on timescales of tens of minutes. A search for faster
variations was performed, but no significant QPOs or pulsations were
detected. At present, no further RXTE observations are scheduled.
