Obscuration of the Parsec‐Scale Jets in the Compact Symmetric Object 1946+708

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Abstract
We present results of VLA and VLBA observations of the 1.420 GHz neutral hydrogen absorption associated with the compact symmetric object 1946+708 (z = 0.101). We find significant structure in the gas on parsec scales. The peak column density in the H I [NH I 2.2 × 1023 cm-2 (Ts/8000 K)] occurs toward the center of activity of the source, as does the highest velocity dispersion (ΔVFWHM 350 km s-1). In addition, we find that the continuum spectra of the various radio components associated with these jets strongly indicate free-free absorption. This effect is particularly pronounced toward the core and inner components of the receding jet, suggesting the presence of a screen local to the source, perhaps part of an obscuring torus.