MAGNETIC ACTIVITY IN ASYMPTOTIC GIANT BRANCH STARS

The axisymmetric structures of most planetary nebulae (PNe) have led many peopleto suggest that stellar magnetic fields shape the winds from asymptotic giantbranch (AGB) star progenitors of PNe. We seek here to determine the Xrayemission properties of AGB stars and, thereby, to understand and setconstraints on magnetic (dynamo) activity in AGB stars. The results will informnew theories on the shaping of the winds from AGB stars and, hence, the shapingof PNe, and furthermore have the potential to establish the presence of stellardynamos and magnetic activity in a new class of object. Only XMM, with itsunsurpassed sensitivity and good spectral resolution, can be used to carry outthis investigation. truncated!, Please see actual data for full text [truncated!, Please see actual data for full text]