ROSAT X-ray survey of an area 10 degrees square around the active radio galaxy Centaurus A
Abstract
Diffuse X-ray material extends in an irregular, broad filament for more than 5 degrees north east of the giant radio elliptical, NGC 5128 (Cen A). In the opposite direction the X-ray extension is clearly traced for about 2 degrees, making an overall line of X-rays of greater than 7deg on the sky originating from Cen A. The direction of this line coincides almost exactly with the direction of the X-ray jet, and its associated radio jet, in the interior of Cen A. At a slightly different angle, within the accuracy of measurement along the X-ray counter jet, is encountered the radio and X-ray galaxy NGC 5090. Its presence in the X-ray ejection from Cen A supports the precedent from other associations that NGC 5090 is physically associated with Cen A. In the hardest X-rays there is some indication that the radio lobes from Cen A are edge brightened. Positions and known identifications of sources in the field are given. Some preliminary estimates of the properties of this extensive X-ray material which has apparently been ejected from this active galaxy are given.
- Publication:
-
Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Pub Date:
- August 1994
- Bibcode:
- 1994A&A...288..738A
- Keywords:
-
- GALAXIES: INDIVIDUAL: NGC 5128;
- NGC 5090;
- GALAXIES: ACTIVE;
- GALAXIES: JETS;
- X-RAYS: GALAXIES