All cosmologically interesting measurements on galaxy clusters based onX-ray observations like the masses, the Dark Matter and gas mass fractions, the metal abundances, etc. are dependent on how the intraclustermedium is modelled. The degree of observationally unresolved temperature anddensity fluctuations present versus assumed in the analysis modifythe results obtained. Therefore it is important to study the structureof the intracluster medium to the highest possible resolution. The keyobject for this study is the nearby Virgo cluster. To cover at least arepresentative cross section through part of the cluster a string of 13pointings is proposed.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2001-07-12T03:42:52Z/2002-07-08T08:16:10Z
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 Bernd Aschenbach, 2003, 'A Detailed Study of the ICM of the Virgo Cluster North of M87', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-i9mg5bp
