We propose to observe the pair of rich clusters of galaxies A 222/223 at aredshift of z=0.21, to investigate the physical properties of the warm-hotintergalactic medium (WHIM) bridge, which physically connects both clusters. Wewill determine its temperature and put constraints on its oxygen abundance anddensity. As a diagnostic tool we will use the OVII line emission, which isformed at the temperatures expected to occur in filaments between two massiveclusters. The high redshift, a relatively high density of the WHIM in the bridgeconnecting the two clusters and the orientation of the filament approximatelyalong our line of sight make A 222/223 one of the most promising targets tounambiguously detect the WHIM for the first time in emission.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2007-06-18T08:03:12Z/2007-06-23T04:27:50Z
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, Mr Norbert Werner, 2008, 'Quest for the WHIM in the filament connecting the pair of clusters A222 and A223', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-tlfti24
