We propose XMM observations of four relic radio galaxies, withthe goal of detecting inverse Compton scattered microwavebackground radiation. Detection of this emission would yieldboth a measurement of the relativistic electron density andthe magnetic field, directly testing assumptions of equipartition,and providing a unique probe of conditions in the surrounding IGM.XMM.s high sensitivity and broad bandpass are ideally suitedto these observations. Non-detection by XMM would imply extremedepartures of the particles and fields from equipartition, itselfa surprising and important result.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2002-02-14T07:59:00Z/2003-06-10T07:47:57Z
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, Prof Fiona Harrison, 2004, 'Measuring the Magnetic Field and Relativistic Particles in Relic Radio Galaxies', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-xmnj0ll
