GT- Hierarchical merging implies that clusters have been assembled by the mergerof smaller systems - however the effect of the merger process on clusters andtheir galaxies is still poorly understood. We propose to use the EPIC spectralimagers to map the state of the intracluster medium in a sample consisting ofthe brightest merging clusters in the redshift range which is optimum for XMM.These systems cover a range of merger stages, and of mass ratios between themerging components. This will enable us to explore the development of shockheating, cooling flow disruption, gas mixing and galaxy stripping through themerger process. NOTE: SOC enhance request: The pn/filter might need to bechanged if the optical loading is proved not to be a problem for pn/CTI
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2000-10-25T15:52:43Z/2002-08-19T14:18:20Z
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 Martin Turner, 2003, 'Hierarchical Merging and the Intracluster Medium', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-avihnqu
