We propose an XMM survey of low redshift partially obscured quasars discoveredin the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS). These objects are characterized by largeBalmer decrements, stellar-light dominated continuum, luminous broad Halpha andnarrow OIII. With an estimated density similar to optical-color selected QSOs,this large population of obscured QSOs has many impacts on quasar studies, suchas the inclination oriented unification scheme. However, it is far from clearwhether they are absorbed but otherwise normal quasars, or a special class ofobjects. X-rays will provide a unique view to distinguish between thesepossibilities, and allow us to determine this objects. contribution to the X-raybackground.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2005-05-23T16:10:55Z/2005-12-11T04:47:24Z
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 Stefanie Komossa, 2007, 'Partially obscured quasars in the local universe', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-uiagipw
