We propose XMM-Newton observations of 8 new AGN detected by Swift-BAT in theall-sky survey (15 -200 keV). The available X-ray spectra (BAT and XRT) showthat these sources are obscured by intervening matter with hydrogen columndensity of Log(N_H) > 23. Sensitive X-ray observations are needed to understandwhether these sources are Compton-thick and to study their physical properties.A powerful diagnostic for the presence of Compton-thick matter ( Log(N_H) > 24)is provided by the equivalent width of the iron line. XMM-Newton is the mostsuitable observatory to study such objects as its sensitivity is 10times larger than Swift-XRT at 6 keV. The XMM observations of these objects willcomplete the 2-10 keV observations of the whole all-sky sample of AGN detected by BAT.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2008-05-14T10:39:28Z/2008-10-16T12:24:06Z
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 Marco Ajello, 2009, 'XMM-Newton observations of the most heavily obscured AGN in the BAT survey', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-1499ru1
