NICER observation list: Target ID 454701

We propose 2x40 ks NICER monitoring of the changing-look AGN Mrk 1018. In 2015 our team discovered this highly unique AGN in which we are witnessing an on-going accretion transition. Monitoring Mrk 1018's immediate behavior with NICER observations is urgently needed as the most recent X-ray and optical data points provide strong evidence for a current dimming of the source after a steady state for ~3 years. The new data will reveal how the X-ray emitting corona responds to the ongoing changes in the black hole's accretion rate, by measuring the flux and photon index. We will also track the evolution of the wavelength-dependent SED (in combination with an already approved optical monitoring program), as well as determine why Mrk 1018 repeatedly changes in luminosity.