Microvariability in the optical polarization of 3C... - BV FAPESP
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(Reference retrieved automatically from Google Scholar through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

Microvariability in the optical polarization of 3C 279

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Author(s):
Andruchow‚ I. ; Cellone‚ SA ; Romero‚ GE ; Dominici‚ TP ; Abraham‚ Z.
Total Authors: 5
Document type: Journal article
Source: Astronomy & Astrophysics; v. 409, n. 3, p. 857-865, 2003.
Abstract

We present results of a microvariability polarization study in the violently variable quasar 3C279. We have resolved the polarization curves in the V band for this object down to timescales of minutes. We found two main components in the evolution of the degree of linear polarization, one consisting of a flicker with timescales of several tens of minutes and other component with far more significant variations on timescales of a few days. The linear polarization descended from similar to17% down to similar to8% in three nights. The polarization angle underwent a sudden change of more that 10 degrees in a few hours, perhaps indicating the injection of a new shock in the jet. The amplitude of the intranight flickering in the degree of polarization is at the level of similar to1%. These are probably the best sampled polarization data ever obtained for this object. We also performed IR observations and we provide a follow-up of the evolution of this source at such energies after the main polarization outburst. (AU)

FAPESP's process: 00/06769-4 - The Galaxy and Star Formation
Grantee:Zulema Abraham
Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants