The cluster Abell 520 is undergoing significant dynamical evolution. Opticaldata reveal a number of condensations at z=0.199. X-rays show an outerelongation NE-SW and perpendicular elongation NW-SE in the core. A 10 ks Chandraobservation of the core reveals a bright X-ray tongue extending from the coreoutward, and a possible shock beyond the tip of the tongue. Radio data revealthe presence of diffuse central halo emission with a sharp edge at the shocklocation. Here we propose to investigate the effects of the merger on the ICMand the connection of the merger to the formation of the diffuse radio source.XMM-Newton is the only instrument capable of providing the sensitivity, field ofview, and resolution required to study this complex merger system.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2004-09-16T07:25:57Z/2004-09-16T20:22:49Z
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 TRACY CLARKE, 2005, 'ABELL 520: A COMPLEX MERGING CLUSTER WITH AN UNUSUAL RADIO HALO', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-tmhtrmf
