We propose a first-look survey of ten galaxy clusters that, based on opticalselection criteria, are likely to be bimodal merging clusters capable ofconstraining dark matter properties. The candidates have >2sigma RASS excessesbut otherwise have not been studied with X-rays. By locating the X-ray peak(s)well enough to determine if they have separated from the galaxies, the surveyhas the potential to discover new laboratories to probe the nature of darkmatter. In AO19 2 of 12 targets were observed with Priority C; both are mergersand one is a textbook example with gas between galaxy subclusters. Given theseresults we propose to observe the remaining ten with higher priority.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2022-12-02T05:35:28Z/2023-04-11T18:45:06Z
Version
20.10_20230417_1156
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 David Wittman, 2024, 'X-SORTER: X-ray Survey Of meRging clusTErs in Redmapper', 20.10_20230417_1156, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.57780/esa-zr917r0
