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   PR # 22135
    We propose to observe with ASCA a prototypical merging-galaxy pair:  
    the Antennae (NGC~4038/9). This pair has been studied extensively in 
    the optical, infrared, and radio and is near enough (v$_{0}$=1430    
    kms$^{-1}$) to be studied well in X-rays. The proposed ASCA 40ksec.  
    observation will allow us to study the starburst activity that is    
    triggered by the merger, to investigate the soft X-ray component that
    is suggested by the {\it Einstein} data which may represent shocked o
    r outflowing gas, and to constrain the presence of an active nuclear 
      region.                                                            
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