X-ray spectrum of the high polarization quasar PKS 1510-089

We present results on the X-ray spectra of the radio-loud, high-polarization quasar, PKS 1510-089, based on new data obtained using ASCA, and from archival ROSAT data. The X-ray spectrum obtained by ASCA is unusually hard, with the photon index=1.30±0.06, while the (non-simultaneous) ROSAT data indicate a steeper spectrum (1.9±0.3). The X-ray flux at 1 keV is within 10% during both observations. A break in the underlying continuum at about 0.7 keV is suggested. Flat X-ray spectra seem to be the characteristic of high polarization quasars, and their spectra also appear to be harder than that of the other radio-loud but low-polarization quasars. The multiwavelength spectrum of PKS 1510-089 is similar to many other gamma-ray blazars, suggesting the emission is dominated by that from a relativistic jet. A big blue-bump is also seen in its multiwavelength spectrum, suggesting the presence of a strong thermal component as well.