X-ray Emission from the Galactic Supernova Remnant G272.2-3.2

TL;DR

This study analyzes Chandra X-ray data of the supernova remnant G272.2-3.2, revealing a shell of shock-heated interstellar medium and a central hot region with metal enrichment indicative of a Type Ia explosion, estimating its age at 8700 years.

Contribution

First detailed X-ray imaging and spectral analysis of G272.2-3.2, identifying its shell structure, chemical composition, and confirming its Type Ia supernova origin.

Findings

Shell of shock-heated interstellar medium with filaments and knots

Central hot region with metal enrichment (S, Si, Fe)

Estimated age of approximately 8700 years

Abstract

We present analysis of Chandra X-ray Observatory data detailing a galactic supernova remnant, G272.2-3.2. A clear shell of emission has been resolved for the first time as a series of filaments and knots around the entire rim of the remnant. Spectral analysis of these features show that they are consistent with shock heating of interstellar material in a clumpy medium. Spatially separated from this shell we see a central diffuse region dominated by harder, hotter emission. Spatial spectroscopy shows a clear enhancement of metals consistent with a Type Ia explosion, namely S, Si, and Fe. We find no clear evidence for a compact object or pulsar wind nebula and argue for a Type Ia origin. Consideration of the ionization timescales suggest an age of 8700 years for G272.2-3.2.