Gamma-rays from the Large Scale Structure of the Universe

Abstract

Gamma-ray astronomy will play a crucial role in the investigation of nonthermal processes in the large scale structure of the universe. Particularly, galaxy clusters (GC) observations at this photon energy will help us understand the origin of radio emitting high energy particles, the possible level of cosmic-ray (CR) pressure in intracluster environment, and the strength of intracluster magnetic fields. In addition here we point out the importance of these observations for a possible detection of cluster accretion shocks and for constraining their CR acceleration efficiency. We model spatial and spectral properties of gamma-ray emission due to shock accelerated CRs in GC and emphasize the importance of imaging capability of upcoming gamma-ray facilities for a correct interpretation of observational results.

6 pages, 2 figures (1 color), submitted to the proceedings of the XXII Moriond Astrophysics Meeting "The Gamma-Ray Universe", eds. A. Goldwurm, D. Neumann, and J. Tran Than van