We propose an ultradeep (2.5 Ms) XMM-Newton exposure in the Chandra Deep FieldSouth (CDFS) providing the most sensitive view of the hard X-ray sky. TheXMM-Newton high-energy throughput will return high-quality X-ray spectra formore than 100 heavily obscured (logNh larger than 23) AGN. We will study with anunprecedented detail obscured and Compton-Thick AGN at the redshift peak oftheir activity (zvirgul1-2), characterize the average profile and intensity of theiron line and, thanks to the excellent multiwavelength coverage, assess the roleof accreting SMBHs in the context of galaxy evolution. This project, targeting anew unexplored discovery space, will create an XMM-Newton legacy and apathfinder for future X-ray missions.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2008-07-05T05:22:38Z/2009-01-26T05:29:27Z
Version
PPS_NOT_AVAILABLE
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 Andrea Comastri, 2009, 'The ultradeep survey in the CDFS: an XMM-Newton legacy', PPS_NOT_AVAILABLE, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-9gdr5k7
