IUE observations of the high redshift QSO 1101-264.

Abstract

Low-resolution spectral observations of the high-redshift quasar Q 1101 obtained by the IUE satellite are presented. Low-dispersion observations were obtained in the spectral regions 1150-1950 A and 1850-3350 A, and reduced by the improved extraction method of Snijders (1980). The quasar is found to be 18 + or - 5% brighter in the long-wavelength region on November 19, 1978 than on March 10, 1979, with similar spectral slope. A sharp break in the spectrum near 2590 A is explained as the Lyman discontinuity and probably the addition of a blend of the higher Lyman lines in a system at a smaller redshift. No evidence is found for a break at the Lyman limit corresponding to the emission line redshift. Absorption lines identified with the lower redshift system are also observed, and used to derive limits to the neutral hydrogen column density of 5 x 10 to the 17th to 2 x 10 to the 19th/sq cm. Evidence of galactic Mg II and possible other absorption lines is also obtained.