We propose to perform sensitive X-ray observations with XMM-Newton of 7candidate Compton-thick AGN detected by Swift-BAT in the ongoing all-sky survey(15-200 keV). The BAT spectra reveal, through the detection of the photoelectriccut-off (10-20 keV), that these objects are obscured by intervening matter whichis Compton-thick. Sensitive X-ray observations are needed to confirm and tostudy the nature of these sources. A powerful diagnostic for the presence ofCompton-thick matter is provided by the intensity and equivalent width of theiron line. XMM-Newton is the most suitable observatory to study such objects asits sensitivity is 10x larger than Swift-XRT at 6 keV.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2007-05-25T14:55:05Z/2007-11-21T15:39:59Z
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, Mr Marco Ajello, 2009, 'XMM-Newton observations of candidate Swift-BAT Compton-thick sources', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-4ea06xr
