Even though the first fossil group (FG) was discovered almost three decades agotheir origin and evolution still remain unclear. The popular explanation thatthey are cannibalistic remains of groups that lost energy through dynamicalfriction is not consistent with their typically lack the expected large coolcores. We have raised a representative sample of FGs with high quality X-ray andoptical data and developed a robust technique to estimate their relative age anddynamical stage using the ICL. The inital results have been surprising andhighlighted the need to collect data from evolutionary phases prior to FGformation (FG progenitors or FPs) to understand their origin. Here, we proposeshort XMM observations of the 2 brightest and most informative FPs.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2022-04-26T20:06:01Z/2022-04-27T09:37:21Z
Version
19.17_20220121_1250
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 renato dupke, 2023, 'Unveiling the Nature of Fossil Groups with XMM-HST\: Looking at the Progenitors', 19.17_20220121_1250, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.57780/esa-futr7py
