GT-We propose to use EPIC to carry out spectral imaging of several luminouslensing clusters of galaxies. The temperature and density distributionsof the intracluster medium enable the mass of the clusters to be mappedin detail and compared with the projected mass distribution inferred fromgravitational lensing. Together a 3D model of the cluster mass can beconstructed. We shall also map the gas distribution out to several Mpcfrom the core, thereby determining how relaxed the outer part of clustersare.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2001-06-19T03:58:57Z/2002-08-25T18:42:46Z
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 Michael Watson, 2003, 'X-ray spectroscopy and imaging of luminous comma lensing clusters SSC_9', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-6phjwgp
