Strong Millimeter Band Flaring of S5 0716+71 (J1721+713)
ATel #2342; Mark A. Gurwell (Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics) & Ann E. Wehrle (Space Science Institute)
on 9 Dec 2009; 19:24 UT
Credential Certification: Mark A. Gurwell (mgurwell@cfa.harvard.edu)
Subjects: Millimeter, Quasar
The Submillimeter Array (SMA) performs ongoing flux density monitoring of quasars that are typically bright in the mm/submm bands, in order to optimally choose quasars for use as interferometric calibration sources. In addition, we carry out targeted monitoring projects that have been accepted through our regular proposal submission process. Through these monitoring efforts, we report that the quasar S5 0716+71 (J1721+713) is currently flaring strongly at millimeter wavelengths.
Between July 15 and October 9, 2009, the source had a stable flux density of roughly 1 Jy at 1.3 mm wavelength. Since that point the source has been steadily brightening, rising to 3 Jy on October 30, 2009 and to 6 Jy on December 5, 2009. Measurements obtained on December 7, 2009 and December 9, 2009, when combined are consistent with a flux density of 8.5 +/- 0.4 Jy. Continued monitoring at all wavelength bands is encouraged.
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The Submillimeter Array is a joint project between the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory and the Academia Sinica Institute of Astronomy and Astrophysics, and is funded by the Smithsonian Institution (USA) and the Academia Sinica (Taiwan).
Click here for futher information on the SMA Quasar Flux Density Monitoring project
