We propose XMM-Newton spectroscopy of five typical radio-loud quasars (RLQs) atz = 3.98-4.97. Our main goal is to search for X-ray absorption to determine ifit is common among RLQs at the highest redshifts, or if instead it is largelyconfined to the exceptional minority of extremely radio-loud objects. Theresults will clarify whether such absorption is a widespread environmentalphenomenon or instead linked with a powerful jet directed almost precisely alongthe line of sight. Our proposed targets are much more representative of theoverall RLQ population than the small number of highly radio-loud blazarsstudied at z virgul 4. We will also measure X-ray continuum shapes and search forvariability and clustered AGNs.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2011-04-13T06:38:56Z/2011-04-13T22:09:38Z
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, Prof William Brandt, 2012, 'X-ray Absorption in the Most-Distant RLQs: Widespread or ExceptionalquestionMark', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-jq69kyf
