We propose to harness both the unequalled sensitivity of XMM and its broad energy band to systematically study a sample of 6 high redshift (z>4) quasars. XMM can determine accurately both the absorption column density and the underlying spectral shape of the X-ray emission allowing us to resolve intriguing, outstanding questions such as: Is the apparent difference between the X-ray spectra of high-redshift radio-loud and radio-quiet quasars real If so, is it explained by intrinsic absorption or by different evolution of the X-ray spectrum with redshift What contraints can we place on the X-ray spectral evolution with reshift and/or luminosity for each class. What limits can we put on intervening Damped Ly-alpha systems and on the .X-ray Forest.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2001-11-23T05:01:41Z/2002-08-23T18:51:18Z
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 Smita Mathur, 2003, 'X-ray Spectra of z>4 Quasars', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-lg8dm1f
