A Large X-ray Sample of Fossil Groups

TL;DR

This paper reports on Chandra X-ray observations of a large sample of optically identified fossil galaxy groups, revealing their X-ray properties and discussing implications for their evolution.

Contribution

It provides the first extensive X-ray characterization of fossil groups, expanding understanding of their intragroup medium and galaxy evolution.

Findings

X-ray luminosities and temperatures span a wide range.

9 out of 14 candidate groups detected in X-ray.

Initial results inform future deep X-ray studies.

Abstract

We present Chandra snapshot observations of the first large X-ray sample of optically identified fossil groups. For 9 of 14 candidate groups, we are able to determine the X-ray luminosity and temperature, which span a range typical of large ellipticals to rich groups of galaxies. We discuss these initial results in the context of group IGM and central galaxy ISM evolution, and we also describe plans for a deep X-ray follow-up program.