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Polarization of compact sources in the galactic center

Journal Article · · Astrophys. J.; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1086/160538· OSTI ID:6150376
Near-infrared polarimetry is reported for 15 compact sources within 100'' (5 pc) of the galactic center; the results support the association of all 15 with the center. No intrinsic polarization stronger than 2% at 2 ..mu..m is detected from source 16. The polarization at 11.5 ..mu..m is probably due to emission by aligned grains in optically thin dust clouds surrounding luminous stars; these grains are aligned by streaming driven by radiation pressure. The stars that power at least three of the 11.5 ..mu..m sources can be observed directly in the near-infrared.
Research Organization:
Steward Observatory, University of Arizona
OSTI ID:
6150376
Journal Information:
Astrophys. J.; (United States), Journal Name: Astrophys. J.; (United States) Vol. 263:2; ISSN ASJOA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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