An X-ray study of M51 (NGC 5194) and its compagnion (NGC 5195).
Abstract
X-ray observations of M51 and its companion with the HRI on-board the Einstein Observatory led to the detection of both galaxies with (0.2 - 4.0 keV) X-ray luminosities Lx = 3.0×1040ergs s-1 and 2.1×1039ergs s-1, respectively. The integrated X-ray luminosities and the X-ray-to-optical and X-ray-to-radio flux ratios of these two galaxies are consistent with the values expected for normal spiral and irregular galaxies. The radial profile of the X-ray surface brightness of M51 follows the optical (blue light) disk profile rather than the spiral arm light distribution, indicating that a large fraction of the X-ray emission is associated with the disk population. The nucleus of M51 is a bright extended X-ray source with (0.2 - 4.0 keV)Lx ≈ 8.4×1039ergs s-1. Possible origins for this emission are discussed.
- Publication:
-
The Astrophysical Journal
- Pub Date:
- November 1985
- DOI:
- 10.1086/163604
- Bibcode:
- 1985ApJ...298..259P
- Keywords:
-
- Galactic Nuclei;
- Galactic Radiation;
- Heao 2;
- Spiral Galaxies;
- X Ray Astronomy;
- X Ray Sources;
- Astronomical Maps;
- Galactic Structure;
- Photoionization;
- Astrophysics