Strong amplitude optical brightness variability has been found in a sample ofSeyfert 2 galaxies (Naked AGN, Hawkins 2004). The variability suggests thatthe nuclear source is seen directly, contradicting the complete absence of broademission lines as simple Unified Models for AGN would predict. Alternatively theBroad Line Region might be missing in these sources. The proposed XMM-Newtonobservations offer a priviledged window into the central engine to understandthe absorption properties of these objects and compare them to their opticalappearance.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2006-11-13T00:29:07Z/2006-11-15T18:00:53Z
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 Francesca Panessa, 2007, 'Are strongly variable Seyfert 2 galaxies really AGN without a Broad Line RegionquestionMark', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-5e6uk3t
