We propose to observe two extraordinary, high-redshift galaxy clusters from theMassive Cluster Survey (MACS). These targets have been selected as two of thebest examples of major mergers in the MACS catalogue, with clear evidence forconsiderable offset between the hot X-ray emitting gas and optically luminousstellar material. Subaru and Hubble Space Telescope optical data for thesesystems have been gathered by us and will be used to carry out gravitationallensing reconstructions of the total cluster masses. XMM X-ray data will be usedto probe the mass distribution of hot, baryonic gas, and produce detailed mapsof its thermodynamic state. The combination of these two mass measurements willbe used to constrain the properties of dark matter in these objects.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2007-12-06T20:19:04Z/2007-12-08T08:32:38Z
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 Steven Allen, 2009, 'Constraining Dark Matter with Merging Galaxy Clusters', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-bd2duzf
