The physics of the compression wave forming at the beginning of major clustermergers is still not fully understood because of the lack of X-ray observationsof equal mass merging clusters close enough but before the first maximum corecollapse. We propose to observe with XMM-Newton a carefully selected clusterdisplaying the densest bi-modal distribution in the optical and X-ray. Thesedata and parallel optical observations will allow, in conjunction with twoothers already observed bi-modal clusters, for the first time to directlydetermine the physical conditions (such as density, temperature, gas mixing) inthe compressed hot gas and the interplay of the compression waves with the starformation rates of the galaxies.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2006-11-18T21:18:52Z/2006-11-19T10:17:23Z
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 Jean-Luc SAUVAGEOT, 2007, 'A2440 : Compact Merger just before Collapse', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-ihiezm9
