We propose a 30 ks XMM-Newton observation of the hidden radio-loud quasar 3C 234(z = 0.1848). The F(2-10)/F(OIII) ratio and a low signal-to-noise ASCAspectrum strongly suggest the possibility that the nuclear absorber isCompton-thick. The detection of a Fe Kalpha line with EW larger than 1 keV inthe XMM-Newton spectrum would definitely confirm this suggestions. If so, 3C 234would turn out to be the first Compton-thick radio-loud Type 2 QSO observed and,with an intrinsic 2-10 keV luminosity of 3 x 10e46 erg/s, one of the very mostpowerful object ever detected at z less than 0.2. The discovery of an AGN withsuch peculiar properties is strongly needed in the framework of Unified Modelsand, thereby, in the synthesis models of the X-ray cosmic background.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2006-04-24T05:58:49Z/2006-04-24T17:04:10Z
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 Enrico Piconcelli, 2008, '3C 234: a Compton-thick radio-loud Type 2 quasar in the backyardquestionMark', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-dxipftw
