The existence of cold fronts in galaxy clusters is an intriguing but currentlyunexplained phenomenon. In some instances, the observational evidence supportsthe idea that the cold core is the remnant of a subcluster merger with the maincluster. However, this seems unlikely in cases where the cluster containsmultiple cold fronts or looks very relaxed, in which case the oscillation of thecluster core in its potential well might better explain the cold front. Thesecompeting scenarios can be discriminated through a search for temperature andchemical signatures across the cold front. We propose exposures of two hotclusters; Ophiuchus (second brightest X-ray cluster) and RXJ1720.1+2638, whichare natural testbeds for testing and clarifying competing cold front models.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2007-08-11T03:18:44Z/2007-08-15T09:41:03Z
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 Jimmy Irwin, 2008, 'Cold Fronts in Hot Clusters', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-sff7f09
