Abstract
THE jet in the nearby elliptical galaxy NGC4486 (M87) is a prototype of this kind of nuclear activity1. High-resolution observations over a wide wavelength range have been used to investigate the propagation of energy along the jet and the radiation mechanism, but these studies have been hampered by the much lower resolution available at optical compared with radio wavelengths. Here we present high-resolution multi-colour images of the jet, obtained using image reconstruction techniques. Morphological features in the jet known from radio observations are seen in our optical images. In particular, we find that the radio-bright 'knots' are spatially extended, and that there is significant emission in the regions between the knots. There is also evidence for limb-brightening at a number of positions along the jet. Taken together, our observations suggest that the jet propagates essentially free of losses, generating radio and optical emission at its edges, where interstellar material may be encountered.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
