The X-ray emission mechanism in magnetic Be stars

We propose to obtain RGS spectra and EPIC light curves and spectra of themagnetic Be star beta Cep, to provide stringent tests of the magneticallyconfined wind shock model proposed to explain the Xray emission observed fromthis star. Measurement of the density from the O VII triplet (as well as of theNe and Mg triplets), of the line broadening, and determination of the rotationalmodulation of the spectral characteristics will allow to discriminate Xrayemission due to this novel mechanism from either coronal emission or emissiondue to the shocked winds observed in nonmagnetic highmass stars. truncated!, Please see actual data for full text [truncated!, Please see actual data for full text]