Physics
Scientific paper
Dec 1997
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1997hst..prop.7274b&link_type=abstract
HST Proposal ID #7274
Physics
Hst Proposal Id #7274 Agn/Quasars
Scientific paper
As part of our ongoing investigation of the M87 jet, we have obtained unprecedented high resolution images of the jet using the FOC. These data show structures with a FWHM as small as 0.03", and provide a unique opportunity to study proper motions and structural changes of the jet. We will compare Cycle 7-9 FOC and WFPC2 images with Cycle 4-6 observations to track secular changes and motions in the jet and nucleus. Typical speeds found with VLA observations range from 0.5c to 3c, while our Cycle 4-6 data already show speeds between 2c and 5c for many components. Since the optical emission is more concentrated near the jet axis than the radio emission, the optical data will give velocity information on a different physical volume closer to the jet axis, and show whether there are strong velocity gradients across and within the jet. Secular changes in luminosity and polarization are also likely as the knots move, which will provide information on the evolution of the electron energy distribution and magnetic fields. We propose polarization measurements to map the magnetic field structure and its evolution in the first few pc of the jet near the ``central engine.'' We were awarded Cycle 5 & 6 time to carry out observations as the foundation of an annual monitoring program, and received a provisional award of time in Cycle 7; herein we request continuation of this program.
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