Brightest Cluster Galaxies (BCGs) residing in the centers of galaxy clusters aretypically quenched giant ellipticals. Optical studies hinted, and our previousXMM-Newton observations confirmed, that some superluminous disk galaxies areBCGs. The existence of such a BCG population is at odds with our understandingof the formation of these galaxies. Our AO-18 XMM-Newton program aimed toconfirm the presence of additional superluminous disk galaxies at the center ofgalaxy clusters. However, due to soft proton flares, one of the most promisingsuperluminous spiral galaxy and its host cluster could not be characterized. Werequest a short follow-up observation to carry out a dependable analysis of thegalaxy cluster and its superluminous spiral BCG.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2020-08-21T15:28:00Z/2021-01-17T12:42:16Z
Version
18.02_20200221_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 Akos Bogdan, 2022, 'The Unexpected New Class of Brightest Cluster Galaxies\: Superluminous Spirals', 18.02_20200221_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.57780/esa-8hbz3on
