The inner jet of an active galactic nucleus as revealed by a radio-to-γ-ray outburst

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Abstract
Blazars are the most extreme active galactic nuclei, possessing oppositely directed plasma jets emanating from accreting supermassive black holes at near-light speeds. The jets have been modelled as being propelled by magnetic fields twisted by differential rotation of the black hole's accretion disk or inertial-frame-dragging ergosphere. Until now, this general picture of jet formation, and the exact location of the outbursts, had not been verified. Marscher et al. now report high-resolution radio images and optical polarization measurements of the blazar BL Lacertae. The new measurements reveal a bright feature in the jet that causes a double flare of radiation from optical frequencies to TeV γ-ray energies. This suggests that the event begins in a region with a helical magnetic field, in line with model predictions. Sequences of high-resolution radio images and optical polarization measurements of the blazar BL Lacertae are reported. The data reveal a bright feature in the jet that causes a double flare of radiation from optical frequencies to TeV γ-ray energies. It is concluded that the event starts in a region with a helical magnetic field as envisaged by the theories. Blazars are the most extreme active galactic nuclei. They possess oppositely directed plasma jets emanating at near light speeds from accreting supermassive black holes. According to theoretical models, such jets are propelled by magnetic fields twisted by differential rotation of the black hole’s accretion disk or inertial-frame-dragging ergosphere1,2,3. The flow velocity increases outward along the jet in an acceleration and collimation zone containing a coiled magnetic field4,5. Detailed observations of outbursts of electromagnetic radiation, for which blazars are famous, can potentially probe the zone. It has hitherto not been possible to either specify the location of the outbursts or verify the general picture of jet formation. Here we report sequences of high-resolution radio images and optical polarization measurements of the blazar BL Lacertae. The data reveal a bright feature in the jet that causes a double flare of radiation from optical frequencies to TeV γ-ray energies, as well as a delayed outburst at radio wavelengths. We conclude that the event starts in a region with a helical magnetic field that we identify with the acceleration and collimation zone predicted by the theories. The feature brightens again when it crosses a standing shock wave corresponding to the bright ‘core’ seen on the images.