Accretion physics at high X-ray spectral resolution: New frontiers and game-changing science

TL;DR

Microcalorimeters with high spectral resolution are revolutionizing X-ray astronomy, enabling detailed studies of accretion processes, feedback mechanisms, and the structure of cosmic objects at unprecedented velocity resolutions.

Contribution

This paper reviews how microcalorimeters will transform high-resolution X-ray spectroscopy and addresses outstanding questions in accretion physics and feedback in astrophysics.

Findings

Microcalorimeters enable velocity resolution of a few hundred km/s.

They will advance understanding of accretion environments and feedback mechanisms.

Lessons from Hitomi are guiding improvements in atomic data and plasma modeling.

Abstract

Microcalorimeters have demonstrated success in delivering high spectral resolution, and have paved the path to revolutionary new science possibilities in the coming decade of X-ray astronomy. There are several research areas in compact object science that can only be addressed with energy resolution Delta(E)<~5 eV at photon energies of a few keV, corresponding to velocity resolution of <~a few hundred km/s, to be ushered in by microcalorimeters. Here, we review some of these outstanding questions, focusing on how the research landscape is set to be transformed (i) at the interface between accreting supermassive black holes and their host galaxies, (ii) in unravelling the structures of accretion environments, (iii) in resolving long-standing issues on the origins of energy and matter feedback, and (iv) to test mass-scaled unification of accretion and feedback. The need to learn lessons from Hitomi and to make improvements in laboratory atomic data precision as well as plasma modeling are highlighted.