A key concept in modern astrophysics is that galaxy interactions shape galaxyevolution. Though merging galaxies are in many ways understood, how galaxiesbehave in far more common, non-merging interactions, i.e. flybys, remainsunknown. Based on our previous ROSAT work, suggesting that hot gas is expelledfrom merging spiral galaxies, we can now, by utilizing the high sensitivity andresolution of XMM-Newton, explore for the first time the details of the gasejection and star-formation processes at various stages of a galaxy-galaxyflyby. Such a study will constrain our understanding of flyby encounters, thephysics of star-formation and gas ejection, galaxy formation and evolution, theenrichment of the IGM, and the baryon content of the universe.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2005-05-11T20:26:07Z/2005-05-12T03:41:16Z
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 ANDREW READ, 2006, 'THE RESPONSE OF GALAXIES TO FLYBY INTERACTIONS', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-13oms4p
