High-resolution X-ray spectroscopy of the NGC 533 group of galaxies

We propose to observe the group of galaxies NGC 533 in order to performspatially resolved spectroscopy with the RGS. This group is an ideal target forthis since it has a FWHM of only 1.0 arcmin, allowing a high spectralresolution with the RGS and also an almost complete coverage of the cooling flowregion of the cluster within the crossdispersion width of the detector. Inparticular we will study the temperature and abundance distribution within thecentral region using the RGS. The EPIC observations will supplement this forthe outer regions of the cluster, where we will study the abundance andtemperature gradients as well as investigate the existence of nonthermalcomponents. truncated!, Please see actual data for full text [truncated!, Please see actual data for full text]