Scientists Reconstruct 27-Year Blazar Jet Video, Challenging Shock Model in 3C 345
Updated
Updated · Space.com · Sep 21
Scientists Reconstruct 27-Year Blazar Jet Video, Challenging Shock Model in 3C 345
1 articles · Updated · Space.com · Sep 21
Summary
A 27-year video reconstruction of blazar 3C 345 let researchers track jet motion continuously, replacing the field’s usual time-separated VLBI snapshots.
Using the Kine deep-learning algorithm on VLBI data, the team achieved 100-fold better dynamic range and 4 times higher resolution than previous images.
That sharper, continuous view showed the bright compact features moving at nearly the same speed as the jet’s bulk plasma, contradicting the standard expectation for a faster shock front.
The result applies only to 3C 345—about 5.5 billion light-years away—but researchers plan to test other blazars to see whether the shock model needs broader revision.