A deep, multi-epoch X-ray analysis of the unobscured Seyfert 1 galaxy HE 0436-4717

Abstract

This work presents a deep analysis of HE 0436-4717: a “bare” Seyfert 1 galaxy with strong variability and moderate soft excess. Data included a 200 ks observation with XMM-Newton EPIC instruments, a Swift BAT detection up to 100 keV, and multi-epoch observations with both Chandra and the XMM slew. The multi-epoch, multi-band spectra spanned from the optical up to X-ray regime and provided an unprecedented look at the object. We performed X-ray and broadband spectral fitting along with spectral variability analysis. Both a partial covering absorption model and a blurred reflection interpretation describe the 0.5 - 10.0 keV data statistically well. However, timing studies and model extrapolations favor the blurred reflection scenario. However, blurred reflection requires a very low iron abundance in HE 0436-4717. We consider the possibilities that this is an artifact of the fitting process, but it seems possible that it is intrinsic to the object.