We propose to observe the bright quasar 3C 234 for 160 ks using the RGS as primeinstrument. This observation will provide the first deep high-resolution X-rayspectrum ever obtained of a narrow-line radio-loud AGN. Our preliminary RGS dataof April 2019 display, for the first time, a clear evidence of soft X-rayemission lines in an obscured radio-loud AGN. The superior spectral quality thatwill be achieved with the new observation will allow us to unambiguouslydetermine the physical conditions of the ionized gas. This will provide anunprecedented insights on the longstanding debate about the nature of the softX-ray emission in radio-loud type 2 AGN.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2021-05-22T18:58:52Z/2021-05-25T19:13:23Z
Version
19.16_20210326_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 Laura Di Gesu, 2022, 'Understanding the nature of soft X-ray emission in radio-loud Type 2 AGN', 19.16_20210326_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.57780/esa-akb2nll
