Starburst galaxies: Detailed comparison of the X-ray disk/halo connection SSC_29

GT We propose XMM observations of the prototypical starburst galaxies NGC253 (nuclear starburst) and NGC 4631 (starburst from the inner disk).Existing Einstein and ROSAT studies showed soft Xray halos, extendingfor more than 20 arcmin perpendicular to the major axes of both galaxies.We wish to address several follow up questions like detailed temperatureprofiles in the halos and the fine structure (plumes, supershells,fountains) of the disk/halo transition zone. In addition, XMMobservations will enable the separation of SNRs, superbubbles and XRBsbased on their Xray signature (color, spectra, time variability).For highest sensitivity the NGC 253 pointing is offset to the NW halo. truncated!, Please see actual data for full text [truncated!, Please see actual data for full text]