We propose to conduct the first detailed, high quality survey of the X-ray andoptical properties of a statistical sample of galaxy groups selected from the2dF survey, using XMM in combination with the IMACS imaging spectrograph. Theresulting dataset will probe the hot IGM down to the lowest fluxes observed ingroups to date, and the galaxy luminosity function and dynamics down into thedwarf regime. The resulting dataset will provide a unique resource for studyingthe structure and evolution of groups, and the way in which group galaxiesinteract with their evolving environment. In the present pilot study, we target6 of our sample of 25 groups, which span a wide range in group properties, andwill launch our joint X-ray/optical study.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2003-12-29T01:47:19Z/2004-12-16T09:33:29Z
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 TREVOR PONMAN, 2006, 'THE STRUCTURE AND EVOLUTION OF GALAXY GROUPS', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-w5eb8ve
