We propose to harness both the unequalled sensitivity and broad energy band ofXMM to systematically study a sample of high redshift (z>4) quasars, the mostluminous, youngest and least studies objects known. XMM can determine accuratelyboth the absorption column density and the underlying spectral shape of theX-ray emission allowing us to resolve intriguing, outstanding questions such as:Is the apparent difference between the X-ray spectra of high-redshift radio-loudand radio-quiet quasars real? If so, is it explained by intrinsic absorption orby different evolution of the X-ray spectrum with redshift? What constraints canwe place on the X-ray spectral evolution with redshift and/or luminosity foreach class? What limits can we put on intervening Damped Ly-alpha systems?
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2003-05-17T06:09:29Z/2003-05-17T15:44:04Z
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, 2004, 'X-ray Spectra of High Redshift openParz>4closePar Quasars', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-si51j7n
