Mkn 1239: A highly polarized NLS1 with a steep X-ray spectrum and strong NeIX emission

We report the results of an XMM-Newton observation of the Narrow-Line Seyfert 1 galaxy Mkn 1239. This optically highly polarized AGN has one of the steepest X-ray spectra found in AGN with alpha-X = +3.0 based on ROSAT PSPC data. The XMM-Newton EPIC PN and MOS data confirm this steep X-ray spectrum. The PN data are best-fit by a powerlaw with a partial covering absorption model suggesting two light paths between the continuum source and the observer, one indirect scattered one which is less absorbed and a highly absorbed direct light path. This result agrees with the wavelength dependent degree of polarization in the optical/UV band. Residuals in the X-ray spectra of all three XMM-Newton EPIC detectors around 0.9 keV suggest the presence of an emission line feature, most likely the Ne IX triplet. The detection of NeIX and the non-detection of OVII/OVIII suggest a super-solar Ne/O ratio.Comment: Submitted to Aj, 11 pages, 8 figue

Analysing the Suzaku Spectra of the Broad-Line Seyfert 1 Galaxy CBS 126

We analysed new simultaneous \emph{Suzaku} and \emph{Swift} data of the Broad Line Seyfert 1 (BLS1) galaxy CBS 126. A clear Fe emission line and a strong soft excess are present in the source spectra. We fit the spectra with a relativistic reflection model and find the model tends to fit the data with a high iron abundance possibly due to the large soft excess present. By checking the difference and the RMS spectra, we find there is likely an absorption edge at $\sim$ 0.89 keV, which might be caused by oxygen or neon. We also produced an analysis of the time-resolved spectra in order to examine the existence of the edge. Although high iron abundance is required more in the time-resolved spectra, a model of solar iron abundance together with an absorption edge gives a more physical explanation. Variation of the ionisation parameter is an alternative, plausible explanation for the excess seen in the difference spectra. It is difficult to know if there are warm absorbers in this source from the current data. To further investigate the presence of possible warm absorbers, higher signal-to-noise low-energy data are needed. The work presented here tentatively suggests that the spectra of a BLS1 can be explained by a relativistic reflection model similar to that often seen in their narrow-line cousins.Comment: 10 pages, 12 figures, accepted for publication in MNRA

Seyfert galaxies with Swift: giant flares, rapid drops, and other surprises

Swift has initiated a new era of understanding the extremes of active galactic nuclei (AGN) variability, their drivers and underlying physics. This is based on its rapid response, high sensitivity, good spatial resolution, and its ability to collect simultaneously X--ray-to-optical SEDs. Here, we present results from our recent monitoring campaigns with Swift of highly variable AGN, including outbursts, deep low states, and unusual long-term trends in several Seyfert galaxies including Mrk 335, WPVS007, and RXJ2314.9+2243. We also report detection of a new X-ray and optical outburst of IC 3599 and our Swift follow-ups. IC 3599 was previously known as one of the AGN with the highest-amplitude outbursts. We briefly discuss implications of this second outburst of IC 3599 for emission scenarios including accretion-disk variability, repeat tidal disruption events, and the presence of a binary supermassive black hole.Comment: to appear in "Swift: 10 years of discovery", Proceedings of Scienc