First LOFAR results on galaxy clusters

TL;DR

LOFAR's low-frequency radio observations are pioneering the detection of diffuse non-thermal emissions in galaxy clusters, offering new insights into their evolution and magnetic fields.

Contribution

This paper presents the first LOFAR observations of galaxy clusters, demonstrating its capability to detect diffuse radio sources and opening new avenues for non-thermal cluster research.

Findings

Detection of diffuse radio emissions in multiple galaxy clusters.

LOFAR's sensitivity enables studies of clusters up to their formation epoch.

Potential to significantly advance understanding of intracluster magnetic fields.

Abstract

Deep radio observations of galaxy clusters have revealed the existence of diffuse radio sources related to the presence of relativistic electrons and weak magnetic fields in the intracluster volume. The role played by this non-thermal intracluster component on the thermodynamical evolution of galaxy clusters is debated, with important implications for cosmological and astrophysical studies of the largest gravitationally bound structures of the Universe. The low surface brightness and steep spectra of diffuse cluster radio sources make them more easily detectable at low-frequencies. LOFAR is the first instrument able to detect diffuse radio emission in hundreds of massive galaxy clusters up to their formation epoch. We present the first observations of clusters imaged by LOFAR and the huge perspectives opened by this instrument for non-thermal cluster studies.