The X-ray properties and structure of A3571 up to

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Authors: X. Zheng, H. Yu, S. Jia, C. Li, X. Hou, A. Liu, Y. Chen, H. Feng, L. Song, C. Liu, F. J. Lu, S. Zhang
+13 more W. Yuan, Jeremy S Sanders, J. Wang, K. Nandra, W. Cui, J. Guan, D. Han, C. C. Jin, Y. Liu, J. Xu, J. Zhang, H. Zhao, X. Zhao
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Abstract

Abell 3571 is a nearby, X-ray-bright galaxy cluster located in the Shapley Supercluster. Although it appears morphologically relaxed in X-ray images, multiwavelength observations reveal subtle indications of residual dynamical activity likely associated with past merger events. Using wide-field (1° ×1°) data from the Einstein Probe Follow-up X-ray Telescope (EP-FXT), we extended measurements of the cluster’s properties beyond its R500 radius. We detect surface-brightness excesses on both the northern and southern sides, consistent with previous XMM-Newton results. The temperature, pressure, and entropy in the northern excess region are lower than the average values, whereas those on the southern side are slightly higher. However, we find no evidence of cold fronts or shocks. These features can be interpreted as sloshing motions triggered by an off-center minor merger. Our findings suggest that, despite its symmetric appearance, A3571 is still recovering from a minor merger and is currently in a post-merger phase. This work also demonstrates the excellent capability of EP-FXT for probing the outskirts of galaxy clusters.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Galaxies: Formation Evolution Phenomena Astrophysical Phenomena and Observations Stellar planetary and galactic studies

Publication details

Journal / source
Springer Link (Chiba Institute of Technology)
Publication date
5 March 2026
Language
EN