Simulations and observations indicate that galaxy overdensities are good tracersof the dark matter large-scale structures (LSS) and therefore of the diffusewarm-hot phase (WHIM) that should be associated with them. The WHIM in LSSshould have large column densities, and therefore should be much easier todetect than the low density WHIM targeted so far through absorption line studieson random lines of sight (with controversial results). The strategy of searchingfor WHIM signatures in known LSS is safer and more robust, since the redshift ofthe absorber is known a priori. We have selected 13 bright blazars just in thebackground of 6 known LSS. We propose to observe these blazars (in outburstphase) with 2 TOO observations of 100ks each to probe the WHIM in the foreground LSS.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2007-06-02T09:06:32Z/2008-05-17T22:51:22Z
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 Luca Zappacosta, 2009, 'Unveiling the baryons in large-scale structures', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-qlj53vi
