We propose a joint Chandra and XMM-Newton observation of the outer ram presssure stripped regions of the Virgo cluster galaxy M86. Crossing the Virgo Cluster at a supersonic velocity, M86 shows a tail extending 28., 130 kpc long in the plane of the sky. We propose observations of this tail and the leading edge ofM86, not yet observed with the current generation of X-ray telescopes, to measure the sharpness of the leading edge, derive gas temperatureand abundances in those two extreme regions, and the ram pressure forces on the galaxy atmosphere. We will derive the velocity of M86 through the Virgo core and study the instabilities inherent in ram pressure stripping .
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2004-12-19T03:39:45Z/2004-12-28T04:34:50Z
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 Christine A. Jones, 2006, 'Understanding the Process of RAM Pressure Stripping in M86', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-rxhxsfq
