The high densities and low velocity dispersions seen in galaxy groups can leadto the formation of .fossil groups., in which all the major galaxies have mergedto form one giant elliptical. Very few of these objects have been observed, andalmost all are at moderate redshift, making detailed analysis difficult. We havedefined a sample of fossil candidates at low redshift, and propose to useXMM-Newton to characterise their X-ray halos. High resolution observations ofthese targets will allow us to test our understanding of their nature andorigins, and to measure the properties of what may be the oldest undisturbedgalaxy systems in the Universe.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2003-12-17T20:00:31Z/2004-05-20T17:35:01Z
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 EWAN O'SULLIVAN, 2005, 'FOSSIL GROUPS IN THE LOCAL UNIVERSE', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-kc2vz2t
