Narrow-line Seyfert 1 galaxies (NLS1s) are an interesting subclass of type 1 AGNthought to have low black hole masses and high accretion rates. This has longbeen invoked to explain their unusual optical properties (narrow, strong Hbetarelative to OIII, strong FeII) as well as their typically bright, ultrasoftX-ray spectra. However, our recent Chandra study found that a few NLS1s actuallyhave faint, hard X-ray spectra. We now propose to obtain deep EPIC spectra ofthe two hardest NLS1s in our Chandra sample, thereby determining whether thishardness is intrinsic to the AGN emission or instead due to absorption. Theresults of this study will not only affect the NLS1 paradigm, but also ourunderstanding of formation and evolution of AGNs in general.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2008-01-06T20:11:33Z/2008-01-07T02:50:11Z
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 Rik Williams, 2009, 'Investigating the Hardest X-ray Narrow-Line Seyfert 1s', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-fr7irq9
