We propose XMM/NuSTAR observations of 10 AGN newly detected in the Swift-BATmaps using ascheme to detect nearby heavily obscured, Compton-thick AGN. These AGN are among the brightest examples of reflection-dominated AGN in the sky. The proposed sensitive, broadband X-ray observations will allow us to confirm their reflection-dominated nature, study the iron line morphology (XMM), and constrain the absorbing column and reflection (NuSTAR). The shape of the X-ray background requires a significant population of heavily obscured AGN.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2014-08-20T19:48:19Z/2015-03-04T12:16:02Z
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 Michael Koss, 2016, 'XMM and NuSTAR Observations of a New Population of Heavily Obscured AGN', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-z5s3imm
