Lessons from M87: Structure and Dynamics of AGN Jets

          @misc{ pirsa_PIRSA:14110080,
            doi = {10.48660/14110080},
            url = {https://pirsa.org/14110080},
            author = {Nakamura, Masanori},
            keywords = {Strong Gravity},
            language = {en},
            title = {Lessons from M87: Structure and Dynamics of AGN Jets},
            publisher = {Perimeter Institute},
            year = {2014},
            month = {nov},
            note = {PIRSA:14110080 see, \url{https://pirsa.org}}
          }
          

Abstract

We examine the structure and dynamics of the M87 jet based on both multi-frequency observations and MHD jet theories. Millimeter (mm) VLBI cores are considered as innermost jet emissions. Resolved parabolic streamline may suggest that the jet collimation maintains in five orders of magnitude in the distance starting from the vicinity of the supermassive black hole (SMBH), less than 10 r_s where the VLBI core at 1.3 mm is located. Observed sub-to-superluminal motions may indicate an MHD acceleration takes place from non-relativistic to relativistic regimes. We discuss that the M87 jet consists hybrid spine/sheath structure from either a spinning super massive black hole and or radiatively inefficient accretion flow. Future sub-mm VLBI imaging play an essential role in resolving the origin (i.e., formation mechanism) of the M87 jet as well as constraining the SMBH spin parameter. Based on our understanding of M87, we also discuss about the key science in other AGN jets with sub-mm VLBI experiments.