Linear Polarization as a Probe of Gamma Ray Flaring Blazar Jets

2009/12/16 by M. F. Aller, H. D. Aller, Aller, M. F. +3
Physics and Astronomy · #Astrophysics and Cosmic Phenomena #FOS: Physical sciences #Gamma-ray bursts and supernovae #High Energy Astrophysical Phenomena (astro-ph.HE) #Solar and Space Plasma Dynamics

paper · pdf · doi:10.48550/arxiv.0912.3176

openalex publication_date 2009/12/16 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/28

Abstract

We describe and present initial results from a Fermi cycle 2 program designed to monitor the behavior of the centimeter-band linear polarization and total flux density emitted by gamma-ray-bright blazars during flaring. The goal of the program is to identify changes in the magnetic field structure in the radio jet associated with gamma-ray flaring and ultimately to test whether gamma-ray flaring is associated with the onset of shocks in the radio jet. Light curves illustrating radio band variability patterns are shown for sample program sources.

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