FOSSIL GROUPS IN THE LOCAL UNIVERSE

The high densities and low velocity dispersions seen in galaxy groups can leadto the formation of fossil groups., in which all the major galaxies have mergedto form one giant elliptical. Very few of these objects have been observed, andalmost all are at moderate redshift, making detailed analysis difficult. We havedefined a sample of fossil candidates at low redshift, and propose to useXMMNewton to characterise their Xray halos. High resolution observations ofthese targets will allow us to test our understanding of their nature andorigins, and to measure the properties of what may be the oldest undisturbedgalaxy systems in the Universe. truncated!, Please see actual data for full text [truncated!, Please see actual data for full text]