Under very general theoretical assumptions, the evolution of the space densityof clusters of galaxies is extremely sensitive to cosmological parameters. Themost straightforward method of exploiting this sensitivity is throughmeasurements of the X-ray temperature function. We propose to measure thetemperatures and structure of a complete sample of clusters with a medianredshift z>0.7. We will determine the density parameter to an accuracy betterthan 10 per cent, including accounting for the high degree of substructuresuspected in a large fraction of the clusters. If confirmed, this substructurewould indicate that we are observing the epoch of massive cluster formation.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2001-05-10T06:03:52Z/2003-02-02T08:10:52Z
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 Laurence Jones, 2004, 'The X-ray temperature function and structure of clusters at z=0.6-1', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-jtt3t78
