We propose a monitoring campaign (8 observation of virgul55 ksec each) of the brightSeyfert 1.5 NGC2992, which reveals dramatic X-ray variability. The aim of theproposal is to directly probe how and on what timescale the broad Fe lineresponds to the continuum. The analysis of the previous X-ray observationsunveiled that its X-ray flux varies by a factor of 10 over a year with the broadFe line responding to the continuum. Such behavior is extremely rare and makesNGC2992 a unique laboratory to investigate the central engine of AGN. Theproposed monitoring maximizes the probability of covering as much of the dynamicrange of continuum and Fe line variability as possible. These observations willallow us to obtain the best constraints to date of the Fe line properties for each flux state.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2010-05-06T20:07:52Z/2010-12-08T17:04:20Z
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 Valentina Braito, 2012, 'The iron line variability of NGC2992: a direct probe of AGN central engines', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-qkhe3l0
