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XMM-Newton digs into the secrets of fossil galaxy clusters

27 April 2006

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XMM-Newton observes fossil galaxy cluster

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XMM-Newton observations of the fossil galaxy cluster RX J1416.5+2315, show a cloud of hot gas emitting X-rays (in blue). The cloud, reaching temperatures of about 50 million degrees, extend over 3.5 million light years and surround a giant elliptical galaxy believed to have grown to its present size by cannibalising its neighbours.

Credits: Khosroshahi,Maughan, Ponman,Jones,ESA,ING.

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The XMM-Newton spacecraft is the biggest science satellite ever built in Europe. Its telescope mirrors are the most powerful developed so far and, with its sensitive detectors, it sees much more than any previous X-ray satellite.

Credits: ESA

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