Shell galaxies represent the ideal class of objects to investigate galaxyevolution in the field. Although their origin has been explained in theframework of different scenarios (weak interaction, accretion, major mergingevents), the environment in which shell galaxies evolve is predicted to be oflow density: in clusters, continuous harassment would destroy shells,otherwise long-lasting features able to persist for several Gyrs. In the X-rayband, we can test whether these galaxies, now in very low density environments,retain information about the richer environment in which they evolved in theform of a hot IGM. We therefore propose to observe 4 shell galaxies for which wehave direct evidence of ongoing interaction and/or recent merging events.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2004-01-24T00:14:49Z/2004-11-05T14:33:30Z
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 GINEVRA TRINCHIERI, 2005, 'GALAXY EVOLUTION IN THE FIELD: DO SHELL GALAXIES HAVE DIFFUSE X-RAY EMISSIONquestionMark', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-ukf8uj6
