We propose XMM and NuSTAR joint observations of a z=1.77 quasar, with the goalof measuring its high-energy cutoff and hence, its coronal temperature andoptical depth. Only recently high S/N spectra allowed precise measurements ofthese parameters for the brightest local AGN, finding cutoff energies above100virgulkeV. Here we demonstrate that the same estimates are possible for thebrightest high-z quasars, if both XMM and NuSTAR are employed. The scientificoutcome is of great value: we will test whether the same physical conditionshold in quasars at luminosities three orders of magnitude higher than thoseprobed so far in the nearby Universe. An important additional goal will be thestudy of the X-ray absorption, both at the source rest frame and in the intervening intergalactic medium.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2015-11-06T13:50:11Z/2015-11-07T13:43:31Z
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 Guido Risaliti, 2016, 'Measuring coronal properties of a high redshift comma luminous quasar', 17.56_20190403_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-57rifwn
