The combination of the large sensitivity of the XMM cameras and theavailability of the results of the CNOC2 Survey for Galaxy Groups now offers theunique opportunity to conduct a highly sensitive survey for the X-ray propertiesof small Groups at high redshift. With just a single 100ksec exposure, wepropose to acquire data on a few dozen Groups addressing a range of issuesconcerning the physical properties of gas in small Groups. Since a statisticalmass estimate from weak lensing exists for the CNOC2 Groups, we will even beable to address the issue of the gas content as a function of totalgravitational mass. With a single stroke, XMM can extend our knowledge of theevolution of most of the baryonic matter in the Universe out to high redshift.
Instrument
RGS1, EPN, RGS2, EMOS1, OM, EMOS2
Temporal Coverage
2003-04-15T00:22:26Z/2003-04-16T03:05:04Z
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, Prof Frederik Paerels, 2004, 'A Survey of Small Galaxy Groups at High redshift', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-xcbn36t
