Abstract

We present polarization VLBI observations of the gravitational lens system B0218+357 at an observing frequency of 8.4 GHz. The lensed components A and B show a core-jet substructure at milliarcsecond (mas) resolution, consistent with the quantitative lensing properties known for the system. The identified core is linearly polarized at a level of 8%-12%. The polarization position angle difference between A and B is consistent with the expected behavior of polarized emission under gravitational lensing and the known rotation due to differential Faraday rotation along the two lines of sight through the lensing galaxy. The mas polarization structure confirms the expected parity reversal for the two lensed components predicted by generic lens models for this system. Indirect evidence is presented in support of the BL Lacertae optical classification of the lensed object.

Full Text
Published version (Free)

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 call