The proposal aims to obtain high quality XMM-EPIC spectra of the 5 most luminous z=2 radio-quiet quasars to test the properties of the inner accretiondisc. Indeed the objects represent the most luminous known (non-beamed) AGN in the Universe, and must contain massive black holes. We will use the XMM-EPICdata to see whether the quasars have broad iron K lines, like the nearby Seyfert1 galaxies. We will measure the Compton reflection componentwhich will constrain the ionisation of the inner disc. Finally by usingsimultaneous data from EPIC and OM, we will be able to model the quasar Big BlueBump and hard X-ray continuum. The data will represent the definitive sample ofluminous quasars, at the peak of quasar Epoch.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2002-11-22T21:24:36Z/2003-06-18T18:46:14Z
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, 2004, 'Exploring the Central Engines of Luminous Quasars.', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-q8ghaa8
