The XMM-LSS cluster sample and its cosmological applications. Prospects for the XMM next decade

TL;DR

This paper discusses the XMM-LSS galaxy cluster survey, demonstrating its potential for precise cosmological parameter estimation and evolution scenario discrimination through an expanded survey and additional mass measurements.

Contribution

It presents the first results from the XMM-LSS survey and outlines prospects for future larger surveys to constrain cosmological models.

Findings

Results compatible with WMAP3 parameters and self-similar evolution.

Extending to 200 deg2 could distinguish cluster evolution scenarios.

Future surveys could determine sigma8 and Gamma with 5-10% accuracy.

Abstract

The well defined selection function of the XMM-LSS survey enables a simultaneous modelling of the observed cluster number counts and of the evolution of the L-T relation. We present results pertaining to the first 5 deg2 for a well controlled sample comprising 30 objects: they are compatible with the WMAP3 parameter set along with cluster self-similar evolution. Extending such a survey to 200 deg2 would (1) allow discriminating between the major scenarios of the cluster L-T evolution and (2) provide a unique self-sufficient determination of sigma8 and Gamma with an accuracy of ~ 5% and 10% respectively, when adding mass information from weak lensing and S-Z observations.