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Context. Abell 754 is a rich galaxy cluster at z = 0.0543 and is considered the prototype of a major cluster merger. As many dynamically unrelaxed systems, it hosts diffuse radio emission on megaparsec-scales. Extended synchrotron sources in the intra-cluster medium (ICM) are commonly interpreted as evidence that a fraction of the gravitational energy released during cluster mergers is dissipated into nonthermal components. Aims. Here, we aim to use new MeerKAT UHF- and L-band observations to study nonthermal phenomena in Abell 754. These data are complemented with archival XMM-Newton observations to investigate the resolved spectral properties of both the radio and X-ray cluster emission. Methods. For the first time, we employed the pipeline originally developed to calibrate LOFAR data to MeerKAT observations. This allowed us to perform a direction-dependent calibration and obtain highly sensitive radio images in UHF and L bands that capture the extended emission with unprecedented detail. By using a large XMM-Newton mosaic, we produced thermodynamic maps of the ICM. Results. Our analysis reveals that the radio halo in the cluster center is bounded by the well-known shock in the eastern direction. Furthermore, in the southwest periphery, we discover an extended radio source that we classify as a radio relic that is possibly tracing a shock driven by the squeezed gas compressed by the merger, outflowing in perpendicular directions. The low-luminosity of this relic appears compatible with direct acceleration of thermal pool electrons. We interpret the observed radio and X-ray features in the context of a major cluster merger with a nonzero impact parameter. Conclusions. Abell 754 is a remarkable galaxy cluster showcasing exceptional features associated with the ongoing merger event. The high quality of the new MeerKAT data motivates further work on this system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context. Tailed radio galaxies are shaped by ram pressure that is due to the high-velocity motion of their host through the intracluster medium (ICM). Recent works have reported on the increasing complexity of the phenomenology of tailed galaxies, with departures from theoretical ageing models and novel evidence of re-energising mechanisms that are nonetheless unclear. Aims. The nearby (z = 0.0894) galaxy cluster Abell 2142 hosts two tailed galaxies, namely T1 and T2, which exhibit peculiar morphological features. We aim to investigate the properties of T1 and T2 and constrain their spectral evolution, dynamics, and interactions with the ICM. Methods. We combined data from LOw Frequency Array (LOFAR), upgraded Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (uGMRT), Very Large Array (VLA), and MeerKAT (from 30 MHz to 6.5 GHz) to carry out a detailed spectral analysis of T1 and T2. We analysed the surface brightness profiles, measured integrated and spatially resolved spectral indices. We performed a comparison with single injection ageing models. The Chandra X-ray data were used to search for discontinuities in the ICM properties in the direction of the targets. Results. The spectral properties of T1 at low frequencies can be predicted by ageing models and provide constraints on the 3D dynamics of the host by assuming a constant velocity. However, a more complex scenario is suggested by the sharp transitions along sub-regions of the tail, local surface brightness enhancements, and a spectral shape at high frequencies that is not predicted by any of the models. This scenario may plausibly involve hydrodynamical instabilities and particle mixing. T2 exhibits unusual morphological and surface brightness features, and its spectral behaviour is not predicted by standard models. The effects of two active galactic nucleus (AGN) outburst events during the infall of T2 towards the cluster centre could potentially explain its characteristic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report on the detection of diffuse radio emission with peculiar morphology in the central region of the galaxy cluster Abell 2657. The most striking feature identified in our 144 MHz LOFAR image is a bifurcated radio arc that extends for a projected size of 150−200 kpc. From the analysis of XMM-Newton data, we find clear evidence of gas sloshing in the cluster and a possible dip in X-ray surface brightness between the two radio arcs which deserves confirmation. Interestingly, the synchrotron emission of the bifurcated radio arc is stretched along the sloshing spiral. We compare our observational results with numerical simulations of non-thermal components interacting with gas motions. We suggest that the detected emission may trace a radio bubble shredded by gas sloshing, where relativistic electrons and magnetic fields are expected to be stretched and stirred as a consequence of tangential flows induced by the spiralling gas motion. Lastly, we report on the presence of two thin (6−7 kpc in width) and parallel strands of radio emission embedded in the outer arc that are morphologically similar to the emerging population of non-thermal filaments observed in galaxy clusters, radio galaxies, and the Galactic centre. While this work further demonstrates the complex interplay between thermal and non-thermal components in the intracluster medium, follow-up observations in radio and X-rays are required to firmly determine the origin of the features observed in Abell 2657. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many relaxed cool-core clusters host diffuse radio emission on scales of hundreds of kiloparsecs: mini-haloes. However, the mechanism responsible for generating them, as well as their connection with central active galactic nuclei, is elusive and many questions related to their physical properties and origins remain unanswered. This paper presents new radio observations of the galaxy cluster Abell 1413 performed with MeerKAT (L-band; 872 to 1712 MHz) and LOFAR HBA (120 to 168 MHz) as part of a statistical and homogeneous census of mini-haloes. Abell 1413 is unique among mini-halo clusters as it is a moderately disturbed non-cool-core cluster. Our study reveals an asymmetric mini-halo up to 584 kpc in size at 1283 MHz, twice as large as first reported at similar frequencies. The spectral index is flatter than previously reported, with an integrated value of α = −1.01 ± 0.06, shows significant spatial variation, and a tentative radial steepening. We studied the point-to-point X-ray/radio surface brightness correlation to investigate the thermal/non-thermal connection: our results show a strong connection between these components, with a superlinear slope of |$b = 1.63^{+0.10}_{-0.10}$| at 1283 MHz and |$b = 1.20^{+0.13}_{-0.11}$| at 145 MHz. We also explore the X-ray surface brightness/radio spectral index correlation, finding a slope of |$b = 0.59^{+0.11}_{-0.11}$|⁠. Both investigations support the evidence of spectral steepening. Finally, in the context of understanding the particle acceleration mechanism, we present a simple theoretical model which demonstrates that hybrid scenarios – secondary electrons (re-)accelerated by turbulence – reproduce a superlinear correlation slope. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context. Diffuse cluster-scale synchrotron radio emission is discovered in an increasing number of galaxy clusters in the form of radio haloes, probing the presence of relativistic electrons and magnetic fields in the intra-cluster medium (ICM). The favoured scenario to explain their origin is that they trace turbulent regions that are generated during cluster-cluster mergers, where particles are reaccelerated. In this framework, radio haloes are expected to probe cluster dynamics and are predicted to be more frequent in massive systems, in which more energy becomes available for the re-acceleration of relativistic electrons. For these reasons, statistical studies of galaxy cluster samples have the power to derive fundamental information on the radio haloes populations and on their connection with cluster dynamics, and hence to constrain theoretical models. Furthermore, low-frequency cluster surveys have the potential to shed light on the existence of radio haloes with very steep radio spectra, which are a key prediction of turbulent models and are thought to be generated in less energetic merger events and thus be more common in the Universe. Aims. The main question we address is whether we can explain the observed properties of the radio halo population within the framework of current models. Methods. We study the occurrence and properties of radio haloes from clusters of the second catalogue of Planck Sunyaev Zel'dovichdetected sources that lie within the 5634 deg2 that are covered by the second data release (DR2) of the LOFAR Two-meter Sky Survey. We derive their integral number, flux density, and redshift distributions. We compare these observations with expectations of theoretical models. We also study the connection between radio haloes and cluster mergers by using cluster morphological parameters derived through Chandra and/or XMM-Newton data. Results. We find that the number of observed radio haloes, their radio flux density, and their redshift distributions agree with what is expected in the framework of the re-acceleration scenario. In line with model expectations, the fraction of clusters with radio haloes increases with the cluster mass, confirming the leading role of the gravitational process of cluster formation in the generation of radio haloes. These models predict a large fraction of radio haloes with very steep spectra in the DR2 Planck sample. This will be tested in future studies, but a comparison of the occurrence of haloes in GMRT and LOFAR samples indeed shows a more frequent occurrence of haloes at lower frequencies, suggesting the presence of a population of haloes with very steep spectra that is preferentially detected by LOFAR. Using morphological information, we confirm that radio haloes are preferentially located in merging systems, and that the fraction of newly LOFAR-discovered radio haloes is larger in less strongly disturbed systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MS 0735.6+7421 (z = 0.216) is a massive cool core galaxy cluster hosting one of the most powerful active galactic nuclei (AGNs) outbursts known. The radio jets of the AGN have carved out an unusually large pair of X-ray cavities, each reaching a diameter of 200 kpc. This makes MS 0735.6+7421 a unique case to investigate active galactic nuclei feedback processes, as well as other cluster astrophysics at radio wavelengths. We present new low radiofrequency observations of MS 0735.6+7421 taken with the Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array (VLA): 5 h of P -band (224–480 MHz) and 5 h of L -band (1–2 GHz) observations, both in C configuration. Our VLA P -band (224–480 MHz) observations reveal the presence of a diffuse radio component reaching a scale of ≈ 900 kpc in the direction of the jets and of ≈ 500 kpc in the direction perpendicular to the jets. This component is centred on the cluster core and has a radio power scaled at 1.4 GHz of P 1.4GHz = (4 ± 2) × 1024 W Hz−1. Its properties are consistent with those expected from a radio minihalo as seen in other massive cool core clusters, although it may also be associated with radio plasma that has diffused out of the X-ray cavities, or to a combination of these two hypotheses. Observations at higher spatial resolution are needed to fully characterize the properties and nature of this component. We also suggest that if radio minihaloes originate from jetted activity, we may be witnessing the early stages of this process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radio mini-haloes are poorly understood, moderately extended diffuse radio sources that trace the presence of magnetic fields and relativistic electrons on scales of hundreds of kiloparsecs, predominantly in relaxed clusters. With relatively few confirmed detections to-date, many questions remain unanswered. This paper presents new radio observations of the galaxy cluster MS 1455.0+2232 performed with MeerKAT (covering the frequency range 872−1712 MHz) and LOFAR (covering 120−168 MHz), the first results from a homogeneously selected mini-halo census. We find that this mini-halo extends for ∼590 kpc at 1283 MHz, significantly larger than previously believed, and has a flatter spectral index (α = −0.97 ± 0.05) than typically expected. Our X-ray analysis clearly reveals a large-scale (254 kpc) sloshing spiral in the intracluster medium. We perform a point-to-point analysis, finding a tight single correlation between radio and X-ray surface brightness with a super-linear slope of |$b_{\rm 1283\, MHz} = 1.16^{+0.06}_{-0.07}$| and |$b_{\rm 145\, MHz} = 1.15^{+0.09}_{-0.08}$|⁠ ; this indicates a strong link between the thermal and non-thermal components of the intracluster medium. Conversely, in the spectral index/X-ray surface brightness plane, we find that regions inside and outside the sloshing spiral follow different correlations. We find compelling evidence for multiple sub-components in this mini-halo for the first time. While both the turbulent (re-)acceleration and hadronic scenarios are able to explain some observed properties of the mini-halo in MS 1455.0+2232, neither scenario is able to account for all the evidence presented by our analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context. Megaparsec-scale radio sources in the form of halos and relics are often detected in dynamically disturbed galaxy clusters. Although they are associated with merger-induced turbulence and shocks, respectively, their formation is not fully understood. Aims. We aim to identify the mechanisms responsible for particle acceleration and magnetic field amplification in the halo and relics of the galaxy cluster ClG 0217+70. Methods. We observed ClG 0217+70 with LOFAR at 141 MHz and with VLA at 1.5 GHz, and we combined these observations with VLA 1.4 GHz archival data to study the morphological and spectral properties of the diffuse sources. We added Chandra archival data to examine the thermal and non-thermal properties of the halo. Results. Our LOFAR and VLA data confirm the presence of a giant radio halo in the cluster centre and multiple relics in the outskirts. The radio and X-ray emission from the halo are correlated, implying a tight relation between the thermal and non-thermal components. The diffuse radio structure in the south-east, with a projected size of 3.5 Mpc, is the most extended radio relic detected to date. The spectral index across the relic width steepens towards the cluster centre, suggesting electron ageing in the post-shock regions. The shock Mach numbers for the relics derived from the spectral index map range between 2.0 and 3.2. However, the integrated spectral indices lead to increasingly high Mach numbers for the relics farther from the cluster centre. This discrepancy could be because the relation between injection and integrated spectra does not hold for distant shocks, suggesting that the cooling time for the radio-emitting electrons is longer than the crossing time of the shocks. The variations in the surface brightness of the relics and the low Mach numbers imply that the radio-emitting electrons are re-accelerated from fossil plasma that could originate in active galactic nuclei. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Giant radio relics are arc-like structures of diffuse, non-thermal synchrotron radiation that trace shock waves induced by galaxy cluster mergers. The particle (re-)acceleration mechanism producing such radio relics is unclear. One major open question is whether relics can be formed directly from a population of thermal seed electrons, or if pre-existing relativistic seed electrons are required. In some cases, active galactic nuclei (AGNs) can provide such a population of sub-GeV electrons. However, it is unclear how common this connection is. In this paper, we present LOFAR 140 MHz and Very Large Array L -band radio observations, as well as Chandra data of PSZ2 G096.88+24.18, a merging galaxy cluster system hosting a pair of radio relics. A large patch of diffuse emission connects a bright radio galaxy with one of the relics, likely affecting the properties of the relic. We find that the most plausible explanation for the connection is that the merger shock wave has passed over an AGN lobe. The shock passing over this seed population of electrons has led to an increased brightness in the relic only in the region filled with seed electrons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radio haloes are extended (∼Mpc), steep spectrum sources found in the central region of dynamically disturbed clusters of galaxies. Only a handful of radio haloes have been reported to reside in galaxy clusters with a mass |$M_{500}\lesssim 5\times 10^{14}\, \mathrm{ M}_\odot$|⁠. In this paper, we present a LOw Frequency ARray (LOFAR) 144 MHz detection of a radio halo in the galaxy cluster Abell 990 with a mass of |$M_{500}=(4.9\pm 0.3)\times 10^{14}\, \mathrm{ M}_\odot$|⁠. The halo has a projected size of |${\sim} 700\, {\rm kpc}$| and a flux density of |$20.2\pm 2.2\, {\rm mJy}$| or a radio power of |$1.2\pm 0.1\times 10^{24}\, {\rm W\, Hz}^{-1}$| at the cluster redshift (z = 0.144) that makes it one of the two haloes with the lowest radio power detected to date. Our analysis of the emission from the cluster with Chandra archival data using dynamical indicators shows that the cluster is not undergoing a major merger but is a slightly disturbed system with a mean temperature of |$5\, {\rm keV}$|⁠. The low X-ray luminosity of |$L_{\mathrm{ X}}=(3.66\pm 0.08)\times 10^{44}\, {\rm erg\, s}^{-1}$| in the 0.1–2.4 keV band implies that the cluster is one of the least luminous systems known to host a radio halo. Our detection of the radio halo in Abell 990 opens the possibility of detecting many more haloes in poorly explored less massive clusters with low-frequency telescopes such as LOFAR, Murchison Widefield Array (MWA, Phase II), and upgraded Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (uGMRT). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Collisions between galaxy clusters dissipate enormous amounts of energy in the intracluster medium (ICM) through turbulence and shocks. In the process, Mpc-scale diffuse synchrotron emission in form of radio haloes and relics can form. However, little is known about the very early phase of the collision. We used deep radio observations from 53 MHz to 1.5 GHz to study the pre-merging galaxy clusters A1758N and A1758S that are ∼2 Mpc apart. We confirm the presence of a giant bridge of radio emission connecting the two systems that was reported only tentatively in our earlier work. This is the second large-scale radio bridge observed to date in a cluster pair. The bridge is clearly visible in the LOFAR image at 144 MHz and tentatively detected at 53 MHz. Its mean radio emissivity is more than one order of magnitude lower than that of the radio haloes in A1758N and A1758S. Interestingly, the radio and X-ray emissions of the bridge are correlated. Our results indicate that non-thermal phenomena in the ICM can be generated also in the region of compressed gas in-between infalling systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radio relics trace shock fronts generated in the intracluster medium (ICM) during cluster mergers. The particle acceleration mechanism at the shock fronts is not yet completely understood. We observed the Toothbrush relic with the Effelsberg and Sardinia Radio Telescope at 14.25 GHz and 18.6 GHz, respectively. Unlike previously claimed, the integrated spectrum of the relic closely follows a power law over almost three orders of magnitude in frequency, with a spectral index of α58 MHz18.6 GHz = −1.16 ± 0.03 α 58 MHz 18.6 GHz = − 1.16 ± 0.03 $ \alpha_{\mathrm{58\,MHz}}^{\mathrm{18.6\,GHz}}=-1.16\pm0.03 $. Our finding is consistent with a power-law injection spectrum, as predicted by diffusive shock acceleration theory. The result suggests that there is only little magnetic field strength evolution downstream of the shock. From the lack of spectral steepening, we find that either the Sunyaev–Zeldovich decrement produced by the pressure jump is less extended than ∼600 kpc along the line of sight or, conversely, that the relic is located far behind in the cluster. For the first time, we detect linearly polarized emission from the "brush" at 18.6 GHz. Compared to 8.3 GHz, the degree of polarization across the brush increases at 18.6 GHz, suggesting a strong Faraday depolarization toward lower frequencies. The observed depolarization is consistent with an intervening magnetized screen that arises from the dense ICM containing turbulent magnetic fields. The depolarization, corresponding to a standard deviation of the rotation measures as high as σRM = 212 ± 23 rad m−2, suggests that the brush is located in or behind the ICM. Our findings indicate that the Toothbrush relic can be consistently explained by the standard scenario for relic formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present an analysis of archival Chandra data of the merging galaxy cluster ClG 0217+70. The Fe XXV Heα X-ray emission line is clearly visible in the 25 ks observation, allowing a precise determination of the redshift of the cluster as z = 0.180 ± 0.006. We measure kT500 = 8.3  ±  0.4 keV and estimate M500 = (1.06 ± 0.11) × 1015 M⊙ based on existing scaling relations. Correcting both the radio and X-ray luminosities with the revised redshift reported here, which is much larger than previously inferred based on sparse optical data, this object is no longer an X-ray underluminous outlier in the LX − Pradio scaling relation. The new redshift also means that, in terms of physical scale, ClG 0217+70 hosts one of the largest radio halos and one of the largest radio relics known to date. Most of the relic candidates lie in projection beyond r200. The X-ray morphological parameters suggest that the intracluster medium is still dynamically disturbed. Two X-ray surface brightness discontinuities are confirmed in the northern and southern parts of the cluster, with density jumps of 1.40 ± 0.16 and 3.0 ± 0.6, respectively. We also find a 700 × 200 kpc X-ray faint channel in the western part of the cluster, which may correspond to compressed heated gas or increased non-thermal pressure due to turbulence or magnetic fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context. Ultra-low frequency observations (< 100 MHz) are particularly challenging because they are usually performed in a low signal-to-noise ratio regime due to the high sky temperature and because of ionospheric disturbances whose effects are inversely proportional to the observing frequency. Nonetheless, these observations are crucial for studying the emission from low-energy populations of cosmic rays. Aims. We aim to obtain the first thermal-noise limited (∼1.5 mJy beam−1) deep continuum radio map using the Low Frequency Array's Low Band Antenna (LOFAR LBA) system. Our demonstration observation targeted the galaxy cluster RX J0603.3+4214 (known as the Toothbrush cluster). We used the resulting ultra-low frequency (39–78 MHz) image to study cosmic-ray acceleration and evolution in the post shock region considering the presence of a radio halo. Methods. We describe the data reduction we used to calibrate LOFAR LBA observations. The resulting image was combined with observations at higher frequencies (LOFAR 150 MHz and VLA 1500 MHz) to extract spectral information. Results. We obtained the first thermal-noise limited image from an observation carried out with the LOFAR LBA system using all Dutch stations at a central frequency of 58 MHz. With eight hours of data, we reached an rms noise of 1.3 mJy beam−1 at a resolution of 18″ × 11″. Conclusions. The procedure we developed is an important step towards routine high-fidelity imaging with the LOFAR LBA. The analysis of the radio spectra shows that the radio relic extends to distances of 800 kpc downstream from the shock front, larger than what is allowed by electron cooling time. Furthermore, the shock wave started accelerating electrons already at a projected distance of < 300 kpc from the crossing point of the two clusters. These results may be explained by electrons being re-accelerated downstream by background turbulence, possibly combined with projection effects with respect to the radio halo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The advent of sensitive low-frequency radio observations has revealed a number of diffuse radio objects with peculiar properties that are challenging our understanding of the physics of the intracluster medium. Here, we report the discovery of a steep-spectrum radio halo surrounding the central brightest cluster galaxy (BCG) in the galaxy cluster SPT-CL J2031−4037. This cluster is morphologically disturbed yet has a weak cool core, an example of a cool-core/non-cool-core transition system, which harbours a radio halo ∼0.7 Mpc in size. The halo emission detected at 1.7 GHz is less extended compared to that in the 325 MHz observation, and the spectral index of the part of the halo visible at the 325 MHz to 1.7 GHz frequencies was found to be −1.35 ± 0.07. Also, P 1.4 GHz was found to be 0.77 × 1024 W Hz−1, which falls in the region where radio mini-haloes, halo upper limits and ultra-steep-spectrum (USS) haloes are found in the P 1.4 GHz– L X plane. Additionally, simulations presented in the paper provide support for the scenario of the steep spectrum. The diffuse radio emission found in this cluster may be a steep-spectrum 'intermediate' or 'hybrid' radio halo that is transitioning into a mini-halo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The largest galaxy clusters are observed still to be forming through major cluster–cluster mergers, often showing observational signatures such as radio relics and giant radio haloes. Using LOFAR Two-meter Sky Survey data, we present new detections of both a radio halo (with a spectral index of |$\alpha _{143}^{1400}=1.48^{+0.06}_{-0.23}$|⁠) and a likely radio relic in Abell 959, a massive cluster at a redshift of z  = 0.288. Using a sample of clusters with giant radio haloes from the literature (80 in total), we show that the radio halo in A959 lies reasonably well on the scaling relations between the thermal and non-thermal power of the system. Additionally, we find evidence that steep-spectrum haloes tend to reside in clusters with high X-ray luminosities relative to those expected from cluster luminosity–mass (LM) scaling relations, indicating that such systems may preferentially lie at an earlier stage of the merger, consistent with the theory that some steep-spectrum haloes result from low-turbulence mergers. Lastly, we find that halo systems containing radio relics tend to lie at lower X-ray luminosities, relative to those expected from cluster LM scaling relations, for a given halo radio power than those without relics, suggesting that the presence of relics indicates a later stage of the merger, in line with simulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present LOFAR data from 110–180 MHz of the merging galaxy cluster Abell 1682, alongside archival optical, radio, and X-ray data. Our images of 6 arcsec in resolution at low frequencies reveal new structures associated with numerous radio galaxies in the cluster. At a resolution of 20 arcsec we see diffuse emission throughout the cluster over hundreds of kiloparsecs, indicating particle acceleration mechanisms are in play as a result of the cluster merger event and powerful active galactic nuclei. We show that a significant part of the cluster emission is from an old radio galaxy with very steep spectrum emission (having a spectral index of α <  −2.5). Furthermore, we identify a new region of diffuse steep-spectrum emission (α <  −1.1) as a candidate for a radio halo which is co-spatial with the centre of the cluster merger. We suggest its origin as a population of old and mildly relativistic electrons left over from radio galaxies throughout the cluster which have been re-accelerated to higher energies by shocks and turbulence induced by the cluster merger event. We also note the discovery of six new giant radio galaxies in the vicinity of Abell 1682. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radio haloes and radio relics are diffuse synchrotron sources that extend over Mpc-scales and are found in a number of merger galaxy clusters. They are believed to form as a consequence of the energy that is dissipated by turbulence and shocks in the intracluster medium (ICM). However, the precise physical processes that generate these steep synchrotron spectrum sources are still poorly constrained. We present a new LOFAR observation of the double galaxy cluster Abell 1758. This system is composed of A1758N, a massive cluster hosting a known giant radio halo, and A1758S, which is a less massive cluster whose diffuse radio emission is confirmed here for the first time. Our observations have revealed a radio halo and a candidate radio relic in A1758S, and a suggestion of emission along the bridge connecting the two systems which deserves confirmation. We combined the LOFAR data with archival VLA and GMRT observations to constrain the spectral properties of the diffuse emission. We also analysed a deep archival Chandra observation and used this to provide evidence that A1758N and A1758S are in a pre-merger phase. The ICM temperature across the bridge that connects the two systems shows a jump which might indicate the presence of a transversal shock generated in the initial stage of the merger. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-Frequency Array (LOFAR) observations at 144 MHz have revealed large-scale radio sources in the unrelaxed galaxy cluster Abell 1132. The cluster hosts diffuse radio emission on scales of ~650 kpc near the cluster centre and a head-tail (HT) radio galaxy, extending up to 1 Mpc, south of the cluster centre. The central diffuse radio emission is not seen in NRAO VLA FIRST Survey, Westerbork Northern Sky Survey, nor in C & D array VLA observations at 1.4 GHz, but is detected in our follow-up Giant Meterwave Radio Telescope (GMRT) observations at 325 MHz. Using LOFAR and GMRT data, we determine the spectral index of the central diffuse emission to be α =-1.75 ± 0.19 (S ∝ να). We classify this emission as an ultra-steep spectrum radio halo and discuss the possible implications for the physical origin of radio haloes. The HT radio galaxy shows narrow, collimated emission extending up to 1 Mpc and another 300 kpc of more diffuse, disturbed emission, giving a full projected linear size of 1.3Mpc - classifying it as a giant radio galaxy (GRG) and making it the longest HT found to date. The head of the GRG coincides with an elliptical galaxy (SDSS J105851.01+564308.5) belonging to Abell 1132. In our LOFAR image, there appears to be a connection between the radio halo and the GRG. The turbulence that may have produced the halo may have also affected the tail of the GRG. In turn, the GRG may have provided seed electrons for the radio halo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims. The aim of this work is to analyse the radio properties of the massive and dynamically disturbed clusters Abell 1451 and Zwcl 0634.1+4750, especially focusing on the possible presence of di use emission. Methods. We present new Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT) 320 MHz and Jansky Very Large Array (JVLA) 1.5 GHz observations of these two clusters. Results. We found that both Abell 1451 and Zwcl 0634.1+4750 host a radio halo with a typical spectrum (α ~ 1-1:3). Similarly to a few other cases reported in the recent literature, these radio halos are significantly fainter in radio luminosity with respect to the current radio power-mass correlations and they are smaller than classical giant radio halos. These underluminous sources might contribute to elucidating the complex mechanisms of formation and evolution of radio halos. Furthermore, we detected a candidate radio relic at large distance from the cluster centre in Abell 1451 and a peculiar head-tail (HT) radio galaxy in Zwcl 0634.1+4750, which might be interacting with a shock front. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pairs of radio relics are believed to form during cluster mergers and are best observed when the merger occurs in the plane of the sky. Mergers can also produce radio haloes, through complex processes likely linked to turbulent re-acceleration of cosmic ray electrons. However, only some clusters with double relics also show a radio halo. Here, we present a novel method to derive upper limits on the radio halo emission and analyse archival X-ray Chandra data, as well as galaxy velocity dispersions and lensing data, in order to understand the key parameter that switches on radio halo emission. We place upper limits on the halo power below the P1.4 GHz-M500 correlation for some clusters, confirming that clusters with double relics have different radio properties. Computing X-ray morphological indicators, we find that clusters with double relics are associated with the most disturbed clusters.We also investigate the role of different mass-ratios and time-since-merger. Data do not indicate that the merger mass-ratio has an impact on the presence or absence of radio haloes (the null hypothesis that the clusters belong to the same group cannot be rejected). However, the data suggest that the absence of radio haloes could be associated with early and late mergers, but the sample is too small to perform a statistical test. Our study is limited by the small number of clusters with double relics. Future surveys with LOFAR, ASKAP, MeerKat and SKA will provide larger samples to better address this issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a new analysis of the widely used relation between cavity power and radio luminosity in clusters of galaxies with evidence for strong AGN feedback. We studied the correlation at low radio frequencies using two new surveys - the first alternative data release of the TIFR GMRT Sky Survey (TGSS ADR1) at 148 MHz and LOFAR's first all-sky survey, the Multifrequency Snapshot Sky Survey (MSSS) at 140 MHz. We find a scaling relation Pcav / Lβ 148, with a logarithmic slope of β = 0.51 ± 0.14, which is in good agreement with previous results based on data at 327 MHz. The large scatter present in this correlation confirms the conclusion reached at higher frequencies that the total radio luminosity at a single frequency is a poor predictor of the total jet power. Previous studies have shown that the magnitude of this scatter can be reduced when bolometric radio luminosity corrected for spectral aging is used. We show that including additional measurements at 148MHz alone is insufficient to improve this correction and further reduce the scatter in the correlation. For a subset of four well-resolved sources, we examined the detected extended structures at low frequencies and compare with the morphology known from higher frequency images and Chandra X-ray maps. In the case of Perseus we discuss details in the structures of the radio mini-halo, while in the 2A 0335+096 cluster we observe new diffuse emission associated with multiple X-ray cavities and likely originating from past activity. For A2199 and MS 0735.6+7421, we confirm that the observed low-frequency radio lobes are confined to the extents known from higher frequencies. This new low-frequency analysis highlights the fact that existing cavity power to radio luminosity relations are based on a relatively narrow range of AGN outburst ages. We discuss how the correlation could be extended using low frequency data from the LOFAR Two-metre Sky Survey (LoTSS) in combination with future, complementary deeper X-ray observations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims. We investigated the magnetic properties of radio relics located at the peripheries of galaxy clusters at high radio frequencies, where the emission is expected to be free of Faraday depolarization. The degree of polarization is a measure of the magnetic field compression and, hence, the Mach number. Polarization observations can also be used to confirm relic candidates. Methods. We observed three radio relics in galaxy clusters and one radio relic candidate at 4.85 and 8.35 GHz in total emission and linearly polarized emission with the Effelsberg 100-m telescope. In addition, we observed one radio relic candidate in X-rays with the Chandra telescope. We derived maps of polarization angle, polarization degree, and Faraday rotation measures. Results. The radio spectra of the integrated emission below 8.35 GHz can be well fitted by single power laws for all four relics. The flat spectra (spectral indices of 0.9 and 1.0) for the so-called Sausage relic in cluster CIZA J2242+53 and the so-called Toothbrush relic in cluster 1RXS 06+42 indicate that models describing the origin of relics have to include effects beyond the assumptions of diffuse shock acceleration. The spectra of the radio relics in ZwCl 0008+52 and in Abell 1612 are steep, as expected from weak shocks (Mach number 2.4). Polarization observations of radio relics offer a method of measuring the strength and geometry of the shock front. We find polarization degrees of more than 50% in the two prominent Mpc-sized radio relics, the Sausage and the Toothbrush, which are among the highest percentages of linear polarization detected in any extragalactic radio source to date. This is remarkable because the large beam size of the Effelsberg single-dish telescope corresponds to linear extensions of about 300 kpc at 8.35 GHz at the distances of the relics. The high degree of polarization indicates that the magnetic field vectors are almost perfectly aligned along the relic structure, as expected for shock fronts that are observed edge-on. The polarization degrees correspond to Mach numbers of >2.2. Polarized emission is also detected in the radio relics in ZwCl 0008+52 and, for the first time, in Abell 1612. The smaller sizes and lower degrees of polarizations of the latter relics indicate a weaker shock and/or an inclination between the relic and the sky plane. Abell 1612 shows a complex X-ray surface brightness distribution, indicating a recent major merger and supporting the classification of the radio emission as a radio relic. In our cluster sample, no wavelength-dependent Faraday depolarization is detected between 4.85 GHz and 8.35 GHz, except for one component of the Toothbrush relic. Faraday depolarization between 1.38 GHz and 8.35 GHz varies with distance from the center of the host cluster 1RXS 06+42, which can be explained by a decrease in electron density and/or in strength of a turbulent (or tangled) magnetic field. Faraday rotation measures show large-scale gradients along the relics, which cannot be explained by variations in the Milky Way foreground. Conclusions. Single-dish telescopes are ideal tools to confirm relic candidates and search for new relic candidates. Measurement of the wavelength-dependent depolarization along the Toothbrush relic shows that the electron density of the intra-cluster medium (ICM) and strength of the tangled magnetic field decrease with distance from the center of the foreground cluster. Large-scale regular fields appear to be present in intergalactic space around galaxy clusters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present the results of deep 140 ks Suzaku X-ray observations of the north-east (NE) radio relic of the merging galaxy cluster Abell 2255. The temperature structure of Abell 2255 is measured out to 0.9 times the virial radius (1.9 Mpc) in the NE direction for the first time. The Suzaku temperature map of the central region suggests a complex temperature distribution, which agrees with previous work. Additionally, on a larger-scale, we confirm that the temperature drops from 6 keV around the cluster center to 3 keV at the outskirts, with two discontinuities at r ~ 50' (450 kpc) and ~12' (1100 kpc) from the cluster center. Their locations coincide with surface brightness discontinuities marginally detected in the XMM-Newton image, which indicates the presence of shock structures. From the temperature drop, we estimate the Mach numbers to be Minner ~ 1:2 and, Mouter ~ 1:4. The first structure is most likely related to the large cluster core region (~350-430 kpc), and its Mach number is consistent with the XMM-Newton observation (M ~ 1:24: Sakelliou & Ponman 2006, MNRAS, 367, 1409). Our detection of the second temperature jump, based on the Suzaku key project observation, shows the presence of a shock structure across the NE radio relic. This indicates a connection between the shock structure and the relativistic electrons that generate radio emission. Across the NE radio relic, however, we find a significantly lower temperature ratio (T1=T2 ~ 1:44±0:16 corresponds to MX-ray ~ 1:4) than the value expected from radio wavelengths, based on the standard diffusive shock acceleration mechanism (T1=T2 > 3:2 orMRadio > 2:8). This may suggest that under some conditions, in particular the NE relic of A2255 case, the simple diffusive shock acceleration mechanism is unlikely to be valid, and therefore, more a sophisticated mechanism is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With Low-Frequency Array (LOFAR) observations, we have discovered a diverse assembly of steep spectrum emission that is apparently associated with the intracluster medium (ICM) of the merging galaxy cluster Abell 2034. Such a rich variety of complex emission associated with the ICM has been observed in few other clusters. This not only indicates that Abell 2034 is a more interesting and complex system than previously thought but it also demonstrates the importance of sensitive and high-resolution, low-frequency observations. These observations can reveal emission from relativistic particles which have been accelerated to sufficient energy to produce observable emission or have had their high energy maintained by mechanisms in the ICM. The most prominent feature in our maps is a bright bulb of emission connected to two steep spectrum filamentary structures, the longest of which extends perpendicular to the merger axis for 0.5 Mpc across the south of the cluster. The origin of these objects is unclear, with no shock detected in the X-ray images and no obvious connection with cluster galaxies or AGNs. We also find that the X-ray bright region of the cluster coincides with a giant radio halo with an irregular morphology and a very steep spectrum. In addition, the cluster hosts up to three possible radio relics, which are misaligned with the cluster X-ray emission. Finally, we have identified multiple regions of emission with a very steep spectral index that seem to be associated with either tailed radio galaxies or a shock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context. Galaxy clusters with signs of a recent merger in many cases show extended diffuse radio features. This emission originates from relativistic electrons that suffer synchrotron losses due to the intracluster magnetic field. The mechanisms of particle acceleration and the properties of the magnetic field are still poorly understood. Aims. We search for diffuse radio emission in galaxy clusters. Here, we study the complex galaxy cluster Abell 2069, for which X-ray observations indicate a recent merger. Methods. We investigate the cluster's radio continuum emission by deep Westerbork Synthesis Radio Telescope (WSRT) observations at 346 MHz and Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT) observations at 322 MHz. Results. We find an extended diffuse radio feature roughly coinciding with the main component of the cluster. We classify this emission as a radio halo and estimate its lower limit flux density at 25 ± 9 mJy. Moreover, we find a second extended diffuse source located at the cluster's companion and estimate its flux density at 15 ± 2 mJy. We speculate that this is a small halo or a mini-halo. If true, this cluster is the first example of a double-halo in a single galaxy cluster. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present Very Large Array (VLA) radio and Chandra X-ray observations of the merging galaxy cluster A3411.For the cluster, we find an overall temperature of 6.4+0.6−1.0 keV and an X-ray luminosity of 2.8 ± 0.1 × 1044 erg s−1 between 0.5 and 2.0 keV. The Chandra observation reveals the cluster to be undergoing a merger event. The VLA observations show the presence of large-scale diffuse emission in the central region of the cluster, which we classifyas a 0.9 Mpc size radio halo. In addition, a complex region of diffuse, polarized emission is found in the southeasternoutskirts of the cluster along the projected merger axis of the system. We classify this region of diffuse emissionas a radio relic. The total extent of this radio relic is 1.9 Mpc. For the combined emission in the cluster region,we find a radio spectral index of −1.0 ± 0.1 between 74 MHz and 1.4 GHz. The morphology of the radio relicis peculiar, as the relic is broken up into five fragments. This suggests that the shock responsible for the relic hasbeen broken up due to interaction with a large-scale galaxy filament connected to the cluster or other substructuresin the intracluster medium. Alternatively, the complex morphology reflects the presence of electrons in fossil radiobubbles that are re-accelerated by a shock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a multi-wavelength study of the emission-line nebulae located ~38" (3 kpc in projection) southeast of the nucleus of M87, the central dominant galaxy of the Virgo Cluster. We report the detection of far-infrared (FIR) [Cii] line emission at 158μm from the nebulae using observations made with the Herschel Photodetector Array Camera and Spectrometer (PACS). The infrared line emission is extended and co-spatial with optical Hα+ [Nii], far-ultraviolet C iv lines, and soft X-ray emission. The filamentary nebulae evidently containmulti-phase material spanning a temperature range of at least five orders of magnitude, from ~100 K to ~107 K. This material has most likely been uplifted by the active galactic nucleus from the center of M87. The thermal pressure of the 104 K phase appears to be significantly lower than that of the surrounding hot intraclustermedium (ICM), indicating the presence of additional turbulent and magnetic pressure in the filaments. If the turbulence in the filaments is subsonic then themagnetic field strength required to balance the pressure of the surrounding ICM is B ~ 30-70 μG. The spectral properties of the soft X-ray emission from the filaments indicate that it is due to thermal plasma with kT ~ 0.5-1 keV, which is cooling by mixing with the cold gas and/or radiatively. Charge exchange can be ruled out as a significant source of soft X-rays. Both cooling and mixing scenarios predict gas with a range of temperatures. This is at first glance inconsistent with the apparent lack of X-ray emitting gas with κT < 0.5 keV. However, we show that the missing very soft X-ray emission could be absorbed by the cold gas in the filaments with an integrated hydrogen column density of NH ~ 1.6 ×1021 cm-2, providing a natural explanation for the apparent temperature floor to the X-ray emission at κT ~ 0.5 keV. The FIR through ultraviolet line emission is most likely primarily powered by the ICM particles penetrating the cold gas following a shearing induced mixing process. An additional source of energy may, in principle, be provided by X-ray photoionization from cooling X-ray emitting plasma. The relatively small line ratio of [O i]/[C ii] < 7.2 indicates a large optical depth in the FIR lines. The large optical depth in the FIR lines and the intrinsic absorption inferred from the X-ray and optical data imply significant reservoirs of cold atomic and molecular gas distributed in filaments with small volume filling fraction, but large area covering factor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT The newly discovered galaxy cluster 1RXS J0603.3+4214 hosts a 1.9 Mpc long, bright radio relic with a peculiar linear morphology. Using hydrodynamical N-body adaptive mesh refinement simulations of the merger between three initially hydrostatic clusters in an idealized set-up, we are able to reconstruct the morphology of the radio relic. Based on our simulation, we can constrain the merger geometry, predict lensing mass measurements and X-ray observations. Comparing such models to X-ray, redshift and lensing data will validate the geometry of this complex merger which helps in constraining the parameters for shock acceleration of electrons that produces the radio relic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT In this paper, we address the question of why cluster radio relics that are connected to shock acceleration, so-called radio gischt relics, have preferentially been found in the outskirts of galaxy clusters. By identifying merger shock waves in cosmological grid simulations, we explore several prescriptions for relating the energy dissipated in shocks to the energy emitted in the radio band. None of the investigated models produces detectable radio relics within 100-200 kpc from the cluster centre. All models cause >50 per cent of the detectable relic emission at projected distances >800 kpc. Central radio relics caused by shocks that propagate along the line of sight are rare events for simple geometrical reasons, and they have a low surface brightness making them elusive for current instruments. Our simulations show that the radial distribution of observed relics can be explained by the radial trend of dissipated kinetic energy in shocks, which increases with distance from the cluster centre up until half of the virial radius. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Giant radio haloes are Mpc-size sources found in some merging galaxy clusters. The synchrotron emitting electrons are thought to be (re)accelerated by plasma turbulence induced by the merging of two massive clusters. Cool core galaxy clusters have a low-temperature core, likely an indication that a major merger has not recently occurred. CL1821+643 is one of the strongest cool core clusters known so far. Surprisingly, we detect a giant radio halo with a largest linear size of ∼1.1 Mpc. We discuss the radio and X-ray properties of the cluster in the framework of the proposed models for giant radio haloes. If a merger is causing the radio emission, despite the presence of a cool core, we suggest that it should be off-axis, or in an early phase, or a minor one. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]