We propose XMM-Newton observations of the X-ray brightest cooling-flowclusters with bright gravitational arcs, identified from the ROSAT XBACS/BCS lensing study. All of our targets have been (or wil be) observed for us with Chandra, HST and ground-based optical observatories. Our primary aim is to extend the X-ray temperature, X-ray gas mass and total mass profiles measured with Chandra out to large radii. In combination, the X-ray and optical (strongand weak lensing) data will be used to explore the nature of the dark matter in the clusters and to constrain cosmological parameters from the variation ofthe X-ray gas mass fraction. Our targets are the X-ray brightest, dynamically relaxed lensing clusters which have not yet been observed with XMM-Newton.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2003-06-21T13:21:32Z/2003-06-21T22:00:53Z
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 Steve Allen, 2004, 'XMM-Newton observations of the brightest relaxed cluster lenses', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-yq7umuc
