High-resolution X-ray spectroscopy and imaging of supernova remnant N132D

The observation of the supernova remnant N132D by the scientific instruments oil board the XMM-Newton satellite is presented. The X-rays from N132D are dispersed into a detailed line-rich spectrum using the Reflection Grating Spectrometers. Spectral lines of C, N, O Ne, Mg, Si, S, and Fe are identified. images of the remnant, in narrow wavelength bands, produced by the European Photon Imaging Cameras reveal a complex spatial structure of the ionic distribution. While K-shell Fe emission seems to originate near the centre, all of the other ions are observed along the shell. A high O6+/O7+ emission ratio is detected on the northeastern edge of the remnant. This can be a sign of hot ionising conditions, or it can reflect relatively cool gas. Spectral fitting of the CCD spectrum suggests high temperatures in this region, but a detailed analysis of the atomic processes involved in producing the O6+ spectral lines leads to the conclusion that the intensities of these lines alone cannot provide a conclusive distinction between the two scenarios.