New high resolution X-ray studies of magellanic cloud supernova remnants

R. N.M. Williams, Y. H. Chu, C. H. Chen, R. A. Gruendl, J. R. Dickel, F. D. Seward, M. A. Guerrero, R. Shelton

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

We have undertaken a series of studies of Magellanic Cloud (MC) supernova remnants (SNRs), utilizing the high spatial and spectral resolution and sensitivity of instruments aboard Chandra and XMM-Newton, as well as supplemental observations at optical and radio wave-lengths. Here we present the findings of some of our recent work using these X-ray observatories. Our study has focused on older, well-evolved remnants, allowing us to examine the later stages of SNR evolution. The sensitivity and depth of our observations have enabled us to detect previously unseen X-ray emission from large, faint shells. In addition, the superior spatial resolution of these instruments has allowed us to distinguish particular X-ray features, including two new candidates for pulsar-wind nebulae (PWNe), and to perform spatially resolved spectroscopy for these SNRs. Using these data, we study several SNRs in which X-rays generated at the shock front no longer dominate the emission, leading to a central brightening in X-rays typical of "mixed morphology" SNRs. Further, we investigate regions where two or more SNRs exist in close proximity, with the possibility of multi-SNR interactions. In each case, we analyze the physical properties and progenitor types of the SNRs.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationX-ray Universe 2005
Pages375-376
Number of pages2
Edition604
StatePublished - 2006
EventX-ray Universe 2005 - Madrid, Spain
Duration: Sep 26 2005Sep 30 2005

Publication series

NameEuropean Space Agency, (Special Publication) ESA SP
Number604
Volume1
ISSN (Print)0379-6566

Other

OtherX-ray Universe 2005
Country/TerritorySpain
CityMadrid
Period9/26/059/30/05

Keywords

  • Supernova Remnants
  • X-rays

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Aerospace Engineering
  • Space and Planetary Science

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