We propose XMM-Newton observations of 6 AGN (5 jointly with NuSTAR) newlydetected in the Swift-BAT all-sky maps using a weighting scheme optimized todetect nearby, heavily obscured, Compton-thick AGN. These are among thebrightest examples of reflection-dominated AGN available across the sky,providing the best targets for detailed study. The proposed sensitive, broadbandX-ray observations will allow us to confirm their reflection-dominated nature,study the iron line morphology (XMM), and constrain the absorbing column andreflection (XMM+NuSTAR). The shape of the X-ray background requires asignificant population of heavily obscured AGN and this flux-limited sample willimprove our understanding of this important population by providing detailed study of some of the nearest examples.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2015-05-05T15:58:52Z/2016-04-11T11:29:04Z
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, 2017, '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-vme7pip
