The XMM-Newton EPIC background: Production of background maps and event files

Abstract

XMM-Newton background maps for the 3 EPIC instruments in their different instrument/mode/filter combinations and in several energy bands have been constructed using a superposition of 72 pointed observations. Event datasets, with point sources excised, for the different instrument/mode/filter combinations have also been assembled, with longer exposure times than previously available files. The construction of the background maps and event files, together with their properties and usage are described here. Also given are statistical properties of the photon and particle components of the XMM-Newton EPIC background, based on the analysis of the 72 datasets.