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Fig1. X-ray spectrum obtained with Suzaku. Top panel shows observed data (black cross) and model without Cr and Mn lines. Bottom panel shows the ratio between the data and model.

Massive rare metals from intergalactic space

keywords: suzaku, Perseus cluster

In DOM/2009-2, we introduced discovery of X-rays from Cr and Mn from a supernova remnant in our galaxy. The Suzaku observatory have discovered the same X-ray lines from inter-galactic medium in the Perseus cluster of galaxies. Note that this object is located at more distant universe than the supernova remnant by a factor of more than 10000. This is the first detection of Cr and Mn outside galaxies or intergalactic space. Therefore this is one important step to measure cosmic elemental abundances and to understand the production history of elements in the universe. This result has been made possible by combining several archival data from DARTS.

The study appeared in the November 1 issue of The Astrophysical Journal Letters. You can also check a video featuring this result by NASA.

Takayuki Tamura (JAXA/ISAS)

December, 2009