We propose here to test the proposed merger-AGN connection .in the reverse., bysearching for evidence of hidden AGN in imminent mergers and very recent mergerremnants objectively and homogeneously selected from the highly completeMillennium Galaxy Catalog. Even if the AGNs are hidden behind dust and gas, theyshould be visible in the X-rays. We propose to image a sample of 17 targets at z < 0.06 to search for evidence that these objects host active supermassiveblack holes using XMM-EPIC. This will constitute a stringent test of themerger-AGN cycle.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2010-06-02T02:03:43Z/2011-02-12T05:16:44Z
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 ROBERTO DE PROPRIS, 2012, 'Is there a merger-AGN connection questionMark', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-apecwsz
