We have discovered an extraordinarily long, narrow steep spectrum radio relic inthe galaxy cluster CIZA J2242.8+5301. The relic has a remarkable radio spectralindex gradient perpendicular to its long axis and polarization points to amagnetic field parallel to it. Here we propose deep X-ray observations to (i)confirm the presence of a shock front at the position of the radio relic, (ii)determine the shock physical conditions, (iii) characterize the dynamical stateof the cluster, and (iv) map the temperature distribution. These observationswill (i) provide conclusive evidence for the existence of diffusive shockacceleration and, (ii) constrain scenarios connecting the properties of shockfronts, particle acceleration mechanisms, and the occurrence of radio relics.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2010-12-13T16:30:27Z/2010-12-15T06:19:14Z
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 Huub Rottgering, 2012, 'Diffusive shock acceleration induced by a cluster mergerquestionMark', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-5h8nwed
