We propose to use XMM to observe the nuclei of several nearby galaxies whichharbor low luminosity active galactic nuclei. We intend to search for ironlines in the X-ray spectra of these systems, all of which were observed withASCA and have either a non-detection or a marginal detection of an ironemission line. The detection of iron lines in these galaxies (particularlybroad lines) would rule out the ADAF hypothesis and would support a model inwhich accretion proceeds via a geometrically thin, optically thick, accretiondisk. On the other hand, non-detection of iron lines, with the firm upperlimits on equivalent widths which XMM can obtain, would strongly support theADAF hypothesis.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2001-05-09T04:20:55Z/2001-05-09T08:01:17Z
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 Andrew Ptak, 2002, 'XMM Searches for Iron Lines in Low Luminosity AGN: a Test of Accretion Theories', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-xzscc6v
