Swift/BAT Hard X-Ray Survey: A Complete Sample of Local, Active, Black Holes
Abstract
The Swift/BAT hard X-ray survey is a nearly uniform, all-sky survey in the 14-195 keV energy band, which is not effected by absorption for Compton-thin sources. At a sensitivity of 1.5X10-11 ergs cm-2s-1, we will detect 450 AGN in 36 months. The survey is continuing and the sensitivity increases like t1/2. Swift is creating a complete census of active black holes in the local universe. A much-improved understanding of the current AGN luminosity function will be presented, and prospects for detecting the evolution of AGN will be examined. Swift and INTEGRAL together are performing a similar task in the galaxy. Swift XRT follow-ups of both surveys are providing uniform x-ray coverage with arc second positions and measurements of X-ray absorption for every source. A key to fully utilizing this survey is follow-up observations at other wavelengths that will lead to a more complete understanding of these bright nearby sources. Swift/BAT is creating a legacy sample of fully explored black holes against which all future theories must be tested. As the survey sensitivity continues to increase, the emphasis is shifting to the discovery of new, rare sources, especially Compton thick and highly obscured sources. As an all-sky survey, BAT is particularly suited to discovering rare sources in the local universe. Some examples will be discussed. Finally, preliminary results from radio catalog searches for weak BAT sources will also be presented. On-line access to make the BAT survey readily available to the entire community will be demonstrated.
- Publication:
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AAS/High Energy Astrophysics Division #10
- Pub Date:
- March 2008
- Bibcode:
- 2008HEAD...10.1903T