We propose to observe two clusters of galaxies that are undergoing major mergers (A2744 and A1758). These clusters were recently observed by Chandra and exhibit many of the classic features of merging systems: complex X-raymorphologies, NAT radio sources, and radio halos. While great advances havebeen made in observational cosmology over the past decade, there is still much to be learned about the hydrodynamic and relaxation processes that occurduring and after cluster merging.Using the light gathering power of XMM-Newton, we can derive a high resolution temperature map and determine if the sharp features seen in the Chandra images are contact discontinuties orshocks, the shock strengths, and the time since the on-set of the merger.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2002-11-12T13:40:01Z/2002-11-13T05:33:38Z
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 David, 2004, 'Hydrodynamics of Merging Clusters', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-vlqircj
