First M87 Event Horizon Telescope Results. IX. Detection of Near-horizon Circular Polarization

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Abstract

Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) observations have revealed a bright ring of emission around the supermassive black hole at the center of the M87 galaxy. EHT images in linear polarization have further identified a coherent spiral pattern around the black hole, produced from ordered magnetic fields threading the emitting plasma. Here we present the first analysis of circular polarization using EHT data, acquired in 2017, which can potentially provide additional insights into the magnetic fields and plasma composition near the black hole.

Year of Publication
2023
Date Published
2023-11
Journal Title
The Astrophysical Journal Letters
Volume
957
Start Page or Article ID (correct)
L20
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