We propose to observe the quasar RXJ1028.6-0844 at z=4.3 to investigate thenature of the intriguing soft X-ray spectral flattening in high-z quasars.Specifically, we will attempt to discriminate the hypotheses of absorptionor intrinsic spectral flattening, by detecting the Fe K-shell absorptionedge predicted by the former model. A positive detection of such an edgewill also allow us to determine the location and other physical parametersof the potential absorber.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2003-06-13T10:31:22Z/2003-06-13T22:34:10Z
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 Weimin Yuan, 2004, 'Probing the nature of the soft X-ray spectral flattening in high-z quasars', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-xlvwow3
