Chandra's view of the X-ray Jet and Halo of NGC 6251

Jürgen Kerp(Radioastronomisches Institut der Universität Bonn, Germany) Karl-Heinz Mack (ASTRON, NFRA Dwingeloo, The Netherlands)

Abstract

Using ROSAT PSPC data we claimed the detection of an extended X-ray halo and jet of the giant radio galaxy NGC 6251. Out to a radial distance of 180 kpc we found a close correlation between the well known radio jet and X-ray emission. Using Chandra's high sensitivity and superior high angular resolution we verified the existence of the X-ray jet beyond any doubts. Moreover, also the diffuse X-ray halo as well as evidence for an X-ray counter-jet have been found. We present the ROSAT and Chandra data and discuss both in comparison to radio astronomical observations.

CATEGORY: ACTIVE GALAXIES AND QUASARS