We propose to utilise the unique power of the entire XMM instrument suite tostudy the most luminous object in the local Universe, the Quasar PDS456.PDS456 has a remarkable X-ray spectrum, showing a steep hard X-ray continuum,a deep ionised iron K edge, a soft excess, a low ionisation warm absorber andfast broad-band X-ray variability. PDS456 may be a quasar powered by asupermassive black hole accreting close to the Eddington limit. We will useXMM data to: (a) determine the origin of the X-ray continuum emission mechanism; (b) differentiate between an ionised accretion-disk reflector ora highly ionised warm absorber for the origin of the iron K edge and weak line;
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2001-02-26T09:44:02Z/2001-02-26T22:39:38Z
Version
17.56_20190403_1200
Mission Description
The European Space Agencys (ESA) X-ray Multi-Mirror Mission (XMM-Newton) was launched by an Ariane 504 on December 10th 1999. XMM-Newton is ESAs second cornerstone of the Horizon 2000 Science Programme. It carries 3 high throughput X-ray telescopes with an unprecedented effective area, and an optical monitor, the first flown on a X-ray observatory. The large collecting area and ability to make long uninterrupted exposures provide highly sensitive observations. Since Earths atmosphere blocks out all X-rays, only a telescope in space can detect and study celestial X-ray sources. The XMM-Newton mission is helping scientists to solve a number of cosmic mysteries, ranging from the enigmatic black holes to the origins of the Universe itself. Observing time on XMM-Newton is being made available to the scientific community, applying for observational periods on a competitive basis.
European Space Agency, Dr James Reeves, 2003, 'The Most Luminous Object in the Local Universe comma the Quasar PDS456', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-6drll2j
