Open AccessThe parsec-scale jet in M87.
Author(s) -
J. A. Biretta,
W. Junor
Publication year - 1995
Publication title -
proceedings of the national academy of sciences of the united states of america
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 5.011
H-Index - 771
eISSN - 1091-6490
pISSN - 0027-8424
DOI - 10.1073/pnas.92.25.11364
Subject(s) - superluminal motion , physics , astrophysics , jet (fluid) , scale (ratio) , parsec , accretion (finance) , astrophysical jet , oscillation (cell signaling) , flux (metallurgy) , collimated light , active galactic nucleus , galaxy , mechanics , optics , laser , materials science , quantum mechanics , biology , metallurgy , genetics
We briefly review the observed structure and evolution of the M87 jet on scales less, similar1 parsec (pc; 1 pc = 3.09 x 10(16) m). Filamentary features, limb-brightening, and side-to-side oscillation are common characteristics of the pc-scale, and kpc-scale jets. The most prominent emission features on both the pc and subpc scales appear stationary (v/c < 0.1). Nonetheless, based on the jet's flux evolution, the presence of kpc-scale superluminal motion, and the absence of a visible counter-jet, we argue for the presence of an underlying relativistic flow, consistent with unified models. The initial jet collimation appears to occur on scales <0.1 pc, thus favoring electromagnetic processes associated with a black hole and accretion disk.