Multifrequency Probes of Blazar Jets

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AST-0406865MarscherThe spectacular jets that emanate from blazars - highly variable nuclei of active galaxies - represent the most energetic long-lived phenomena in the universe. Although accretion onto a black hole driving the jet outward via magnetic forces is the preferred model, observational evidence is needed. This project will monitor the brightness and angular structure of blazars at millimeter, near-infrared, and X-ray wavelengths, and will study time-variable polarization to identify the sites of changing emission. Variability will be related to fluctuations in the direction of the jet close to the core. All these data will test the many factors affecting variation, including models for acceleration, energy sources, and amplification and structuring of the magnetic field, in order to advance understanding of the enigmatic phenomenon of ultra-high-speed jets in blazars.Students, at different levels and including under-represented groups, will be involved in the research, and trained in the discussion and presentation of results. Data, results, images, and visualizations arising from the research will be made available on the web, along with educational tools.