Recent ROSAT and ASCA observations of nearby groups of galaxies have providedconsiderable new insight into these cosmologically important systems. We propose to extend these X-ray studies to moderate (z=0.2-0.5) redshifts with an XMM study of a sample of ROSAT-selected systems. Our existing ground-basedspectroscopy program combined with upcoming Cycle 8 HST images will provide agood census of the galaxy populations in these groups. XMM imaging will allow us to map out the spatial distribution of the hot gas, while EPIC spectroscopy will provide a measurement of the intragroup gas temperature andmetallicity. Therefore, we will make the first mass determinations for thesesystems and study the evolution of the intragroup medium out to z=0.5
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2001-04-13T12:49:05Z/2002-06-06T13:55:57Z
Version
17.56_20190403_1200
Mission Description
The European Space Agencys (ESA) X-ray Multi-Mirror Mission (XMM-Newton) was launched by an Ariane 504 on December 10th 1999. XMM-Newton is ESAs second cornerstone of the Horizon 2000 Science Programme. It carries 3 high throughput X-ray telescopes with an unprecedented effective area, and an optical monitor, the first flown on a X-ray observatory. The large collecting area and ability to make long uninterrupted exposures provide highly sensitive observations. Since Earths atmosphere blocks out all X-rays, only a telescope in space can detect and study celestial X-ray sources. The XMM-Newton mission is helping scientists to solve a number of cosmic mysteries, ranging from the enigmatic black holes to the origins of the Universe itself. Observing time on XMM-Newton is being made available to the scientific community, applying for observational periods on a competitive basis.
European Space Agency, Dr John Mulchaey, 2003, 'Moderate Redshift X-ray Selected Groups of Galaxies', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-3qq3vo1
