The Nature of Optical Microvariability in Radio-loud Quasars and BL Lacs

AST-0324238韦伯微变被定义为非常快速（不到一小时），低幅度（小于一个量级）的变化，间歇性地出现在射电大声类星体和BL Lac天体中。 最近的观察开始深入了解这类变异的特征。 看来，活动星系核的类型，显示明确的微变是那些占主导地位的相对论喷流的排放，因此，观测应提供洞察喷流内部区域的物理过程。 支持的研究计划扩大了首席研究员在这一领域的努力，使更多的例子新的全面观察，并开始开始系统的研究的理论含义。 这个项目结合了业余类星体监测网络、研究生和本科生，不仅有利于这项研究，而且通过让所有参与者为前沿研究做出贡献，使他们接触到科学过程。 其他专业天文台也在合作。 此外，学生将负责网站，该网站将用于在整个获奖期间显示不断更新的研究结果。

AST-0324238WebbMicrovariability is defined as extremely rapid (less than an hour), low amplitude (less than a magnitude) variation, intermittently seen in radio loud quasars and BL Lac objects. Recent observations are starting to yield insight into the characteristics of this class of variability. It seems that the types of active galactic nuclei showing unambiguous microvariability are those dominated by emission from relativistic jets, and thus the observations should provide insight into physical processes in the inner regions of jets. The supported research program expands the lead investigator's efforts in this field, to make new comprehensive observations of more examples, and to begin a systematic study of the theoretical implications. The microvariations are diagnostics for discriminating between theoretical models.This program incorporates amateur quasar monitoring networks, graduate, and undergraduate students, which not only benefits this research, but also exposes all participants to the scientific process by letting them contribute to cutting edge research. Other professional observatories are also collaborating. In addition the students will be responsible for the web site, which will be used to display continually updated results of the research throughout the award period.***