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There is still a limited number of high-redshift (z > 3) active galactic nuclei (AGNs) whose jet kinematics have been studied with very long baseline interferometry (VLBI). Without a dedicated proper motion survey, regularly conducted astrometric VLBI observations of bright radio-emitting AGN with sensitive arrays can be utilized to follow changes in the jets, by means of high-resolution imaging and brightness distribution modelling. Here, we present a first-time VLBI jet kinematic study of NVSS J080518 + 614423 (z = 3.033) and NVSS J165844 − 073918 (z = 3.742), two flat-spectrum radio quasars that display milliarcsecond-scale jet morphology. Archival astrometric observations carried out mainly with the Very Long Baseline Array, supplemented by recent data taken with the European VLBI Network, allowed us to monitor changes in their radio structure in the 7.6−8.6 GHz frequency band, covering almost two decades. By identifying individual jet components at each epoch, we were able to determine the apparent proper motion for multiple features in both sources. Apparent superluminal motions range |$(1-14)\, c$|⁠ , and are found to be consistent with studies of other high-redshift AGN targets. Using the physical parameters derived from the brightness distribution modelling, we estimate the Doppler-boosting factors (δ ≈ 11.2 and δ ≈ 2.7), the Lorentz factors (Γ ≈ 7.4 and Γ ≈ 36.6), and the jet viewing angles (θ ≈ 4.4° and θ ≈ 8.0°), for NVSS J080518 + 614423 and NVSS J165844 − 073918, respectively. The data revealed a stationary jet component with negligible apparent proper motion in NVSS J165844 − 073918. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prominent radio quasar PKS 2215+020 (J2217+0220) was once labelled as a new laboratory for core–jet physics at redshift z = 3.572 because of its exceptionally extended jet structure traceable with very long baseline interferometric (VLBI) observations up to a ∼600 pc projected distance from the compact core and a hint of an arcsec-scale radio and an X-ray jet. While the presence of an X-ray jet could not be confirmed later, this active galactic nucleus is still unique at high redshift with its long VLBI jet. Here, we analyse archival multi-epoch VLBI imaging data at five frequency bands from 1.7 to 15.4 GHz covering a period of more than 25 years from 1995 to 2020. We constrain apparent proper motions of jet components in PKS 2215+020 for the first time. Brightness distribution modeling at 8 GHz reveals a nearly 0.02 mas yr−1 proper motion (moderately superluminal with apparently two times the speed of light), and provides δ = 11.5 for the Doppler-boosting factor in the inner relativistic jet that is inclined within 2 ∘ to the line of sight and has a Γ = 6 bulk Lorentz factor. These values qualify PKS 2215+020 as a blazar, with rather typical jet properties in a small sample of only about 20 objects at z > 3.5 that have similar measurements to date. According to the 2-GHz VLBI data, the diffuse and extended outer emission feature at ∼60 mas from the core, probably a place where the jet interacts with and decelerated by the ambient galactic medium, is consistent with being stationary, albeit slow motion cannot be excluded based on the presently available data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using empty-field 'Quick Look' images from the first two epochs of the VLA Sky Survey (VLASS) observations, centred on the positions of ∼3700 individually radio-non-detected active galactic nuclei (AGNs) at z ≥ 4, we performed image stacking analysis to examine the sub-mJy emission at 3 GHz. We found characteristic monochromatic radio powers of P char = (2–13) × 1024 W Hz−1, indicating that AGN-related radio emission is widespread in the sample. The signal-to-noise ratios of the redshift-binned median stacked maps are between 4–6, and we expect that with the inclusion of the yet to be completed third-epoch VLASS observations, the detection limit defined as signal-to-noise ratio SNR ≥ 6 could be reached, and the redshift dependence can be determined. To obtain information on the general spectral properties of the faint radio emission in high-redshift AGNs, we confined the sample to ∼3000 objects covered by both the VLASS and the Faint Images of the Radio Sky at Twenty-centimeters (FIRST) survey. We found that the flux densities from the median stacked maps show a characteristic spectral index of α* = −0.30 ± 0.15, which is in agreement with the median spectral index of the radio-detected z ≥ 4 AGNs from our high-redshift AGN catalogue. The three-band mid-infrared colour–colour diagram based on Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer observations provides further support regarding the AGN contribution to the radio emission in the sub-mJy sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The radio quasar NVSS J141922−083830 (J1419−0838) was initially classified as an uncategorised blazar-type object, following its detection in the γ -ray band with the Fermi space telescope. Later, using multi-waveband observations and modeling, its was found to be a flat-spectrum radio quasar (FSRQ). However, its radio emission has never been discussed in depth in the literature. Here we present a detailed analysis on the radio properties of J1419−0838 using archival interferometric imaging data at pc and kpc scales. We conclude that the flux density variations, the flat radio spectrum, the compact nature of the quasar structure at all scales, and the relativistic Doppler enhancement of the radio emission all support the previous classification as an FSRQ. We also investigated the short- and long-term mid-infrared (MIR) light curve of the quasar based on observations by the Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer satellite, and found that there is significant variability on time-scales of days as well as years. Comparison of the MIR light curve to the times of previously reported γ -ray and optical flares shows no clear correlation between the events at different wavebands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present and briefly discuss results of several studies of the source J2102+6015 with tentatively defined redshift z = 4.575 which demonstrates unusual properties in imaging and astrometric VLBI observations. Its properties might be considered as indications on the supermassive black hole binary which can be considered as a so far rare example of a high-redshift source of known electromagnetic and, possibly, predictable gravitational wave emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Astrometric positions of radio-emitting active galactic nuclei (AGNs) can be determined with sub-milliarcsec accuracy using very long baseline interferometry (VLBI). The usually small apparent proper motion of distant extragalactic targets allow us to realize the fundamental celestial reference frame with VLBI observations. However, long-term astrometric monitoring may reveal extreme changes in some AGN positions. Using new VLBI observations in 2018–2021, we show here that four extragalactic radio sources (3C 48, CTA 21, 1144+352, 1328+254) have a dramatic shift in their positions by 20–130 mas over two decades. For all four sources, the apparent positional shift is caused by their radio structure change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Less than 200 radio‐loud active galactic nuclei are known above redshift 4. Around 40 of them have been observed at milliarcsecond (mas) scale resolution with very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) technique. Some of them are unresolved, compact, relativistically beamed objects, and blazars with jets pointing at small angles to the observer's line of sight. But there are also objects with no sign of relativistic beaming possibly having larger jet inclination angles. In a couple of cases, X‐ray observations indicate the presence of relativistic beaming contrary to the VLBI measurements made with the European VLBI Network. J1420+1205 is a prominent example, where our 30–100 mas‐scale enhanced multi element remotely linked interferometer network radio observations revealed a rich structure reminiscent of a small radio galaxy. It shows a bright hotspot that might be related to the denser interstellar medium around a young galaxy at an early cosmological epoch. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coevolution of galaxies and their central supermassive black holes is a subject of intense research. A class of objects, the dust-obscured galaxies (DOGs) are particularly interesting in this respect as they are thought to represent a short evolutionary phase when violent star formation activity in the host galaxy may coexist with matter accretion on to the black hole powering the active nucleus. Here, we investigate different types of DOGs classified by their mid-infrared spectral energy distributions to reveal whether they can be distinguished by their arcsec-scale radio properties. Radio emission is unaffected by dust obscuration and may originate from both star formation and an active nucleus. We analyse a large sample of 661 DOGs complied from the literature and find that only a small fraction of them (∼2 per cent) are detected with flux densities exceeding ∼1 mJy in the Faint Images of the Radio Sky at Twenty-Centimeters (FIRST) survey. These radio-detected objects are almost exclusively 'power-law' DOGs. Stacking analysis of the FIRST image cutouts centred on the positions of individually radio-undetected sources suggests that weak radio emission is present in 'power-law' DOGs. On the other hand, radio emission from 'bump' DOGs is only marginally detected in the median-stacked FIRST image. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PKS 1351-018 at a redshift of z = 3.71 is one of the most luminous, steady synchrotron sources with a luminosity >1047 erg s−1. The synchrotron luminosity does not seem to have varied by more than ∼25% over 35 yr. In order to appreciate this remarkable behavior, if it were at z = 0.5, it would have a flux density at 15 GHz in a range of 110–137 Jy over 11 yr. In spite of this steady behavior, two strong γ-ray flares ≲1049 erg s−1 were detected in 2011 and 2016. There is a blazar-like behavior coexisting with the steady behavior. This study is aimed at elucidating the dual nature of this source. We find that the radio source is extremely compact with a bright core and a steep spectrum secondary component, 12 mas away, that appears to be constant in position and flux density in six epochs from 1995–2018. We estimate that a jet with a time averaged power of (5.2 ± 3.2) × 1045 erg s−1 terminates in this lobe, which is advancing ≳0.9c at a deprojected distance of 1–3 kpc from the central engine. This is the rare case of a young (∼6000 yr), very powerful radio source that is viewed a few degrees from the jet axis. We find evidence of a high velocity (4000 km s−1), high ionization wind emanating from a luminous quasar. The young radio jet appears to experience modest bending as it navigates through the intense quasar environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high-redshift quasar PMN J0909+0354 (z = 3.288) is known to have a parsec-scale compact jet structure, based on global 5 GHz very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) observations performed in 1992. Its kiloparsec-scale structure was studied with the Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array (VLA) in the radio and the Chandra space telescope in X-rays. Apart from the north-northwestern jet component seen in both the VLA and Chandra images at 2.″3 separation from the core, there is another X-ray feature at 6.″48 in the northeastern (NE) direction. To uncover more details and possible structural changes in the inner jet, we conducted new observations at 5 GHz using the European VLBI Network in 2019. These data confirm the northward direction of the one-sided inner jet already suspected from the 1992 observations. A compact core and multiple jet components were identified that can be traced up to ∼0.25 kpc projected distance toward the north, where the structure becomes more and more diffuse. A comparison with arcsecond-resolution imaging with the VLA shows that the radio jet bends by ∼30° between the two scales. The direction of the parsec-scale jet as well as the faint optical counterpart found for the newly detected X-ray point source (NE) favors the nature of the latter as being a background or foreground object in the field of view. However, the extended (∼160 kpc) emission around the positions of the quasar core and NE detected by the Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer in the mid-infrared might suggest a physical interaction of the two objects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quasar J1918+4937 was recently suggested to harbour a milliparsec-separation binary supermassive black hole (SMBH), based upon modelling the narrow spike in its high-cadence Kepler optical light curve. Known binary SMBHs are extremely rare, and the tight constraints on the physical and geometric parameters of this object are unique. The high-resolution radio images of J1918+4937 obtained with very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) indicate a rich one-sided jet structure extending to 80 mas. Here we analyse simultaneously made sensitive 1.7- and 5-GHz archive VLBI images as well as snapshot 8.4/8.7-GHz VLBI images of J1918+4937, and show that the appearance of the wiggled jet is consistent with the binary scenario. We develop a jet structural model that handles eccentric orbits. By applying this model to the measured VLBI component positions, we constrain the inclination of the radio jet, as well as the spin angle of the jet emitter SMBH. We find the jet morphological model is consistent with the optical and radio data, and that the secondary SMBH is most likely the jetted one in the system. Furthermore, the decade-long 15-GHz radio flux density monitoring data available for J1918+4937 are compatible with a gradual overall decrease in the total flux density caused by a slow secular change of the jet inclination due to the spin–orbit precession. J1918+4937 could be an efficient high-energy neutrino source if the horizon of the secondary SMBH is rapidly rotating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compact symmetric objects (CSOs) are radio-emitting active galactic nuclei (AGNs) typically with a double-lobed radio structure confined to within 1 kpc. CSOs represent the earliest evolutionary phase of jetted AGNs. Some of them may eventually evolve into large-scale extended double sources, while others stall within the host galaxy and die out, depending on the longevity of nuclear activity, the jet power, and parameters of the surrounding galactic environment. Studying CSOs is a useful tool for understanding the evolution of the galaxies and the interactions between the jets and the medium of the host galaxy. Based on milliarcsec-resolution imaging observations using very long baseline interferometry (VLBI), it is not always straightforward to distinguish between a compact double-lobed or a core–jet structure. The quasar J1110+4817 was considered a CSO candidate in the literature earlier, but because of the lack of clear evidence, it could not be securely classified as a CSO. Here we present a comprehensive analysis of archival multifrequency VLBI observations combined with accurate Gaia optical astrometric information. Lower frequency VLBI images reveal an extended radio feature nearly perpendicular to the main structural axis of the source, apparently emanating from the brighter northern feature, which is rare among the known CSOs. While the presence of a binary AGN system cannot be fully excluded, the most plausible explanation is that J1110+4817 is a CSO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We applied image stacking on empty field Faint Images of the Radio Sky at Twenty-Centimeters (FIRST) survey maps centred on optically identified high-redshift quasars at |$z\ge 4$| to uncover the hidden |$\mu$| Jy radio emission in these active galactic nuclei (AGN). The median stacking procedure for the full sample of 2229 optically identified AGN uncovered an unresolved point source with an integrated flux density of 52  |$\mu$| Jy, with a signal-to-noise ratio |${\sim} 10$|⁠. We co-added the individual image centre pixels to estimate the characteristic monochromatic radio power at 1.4 GHz considering various values for the radio spectral index, revealing a radio population with |$P_\mathrm{1.4\, GHz}\sim 10^{24}$|  W Hz |$^{-1}$|⁠. Assuming that the entire radio emission originates from star-forming (SF) activity in the nuclear region of the host galaxy, we obtained an upper limit on the characteristic star formation rate, |${\sim} 4200$|  M |$_\odot$|  yr |$^{-1}$|⁠. The angular resolution of FIRST images is insufficient to distinguish between the SF and AGN origin of radio emission at these redshifts. However, a comparison with properties of individual sources from the literature indicates that a mixed nature is likely. Future very long baseline interferometry radio observations and ultradeep Square Kilometre Array surveys are expected to be sensitive enough to detect and resolve the central |$1\!-\!10$|  kpc region in the host galaxies, and thus discriminate between SF and AGN related emission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BL Lac objects are known to have compact jets inclined to our line of sight at a small angle, showing prominent radio emission. Two radio-weak BL Lac candidates with no counterparts in current radio surveys were recently reported by Massaro et al. Both sources were selected as candidate low-energy counterparts of unassociated Fermi γ-ray sources. We carried out very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) observations with the European VLBI Network (EVN) at 5 GHz to explore their radio properties at the milliarcsecond (mas) scale. One target, J1410+7405, is clearly detected with the EVN. Its measured 5-GHz flux density, 2.4 mJy, is consistent with recent interferometric measurements with the Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array, suggesting that the radio emission is confined to the inner |${\lesssim}10$| -mas region. J1410+7405 is therefore identified as a radio-loud jetted active galactic nucleus, and its brightness temperature exceeds ∼109 K. Its properties are similar to those of other γ-ray-detected BL Lac objects. On the other hand, the second target, J0644+6031, remains undetected with the EVN with a 6σ brightness upper limit of 0.12 mJy beam−1. This source is thus radio-quiet, confirming its peculiarity, or possibly questioning its BL Lac nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To date, PMN J2134-0419 (at a redshift z = 4.33) is the second most distant quasar known with a milliarcsecond-scale morphology permitting direct estimates of the jet proper motion. Based on two-epoch observations, we constrained its radio jet proper motion using the very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) technique. The observations were conducted with the European VLBI Network (EVN) at 5 GHz on 1999 November 26 and 2015 October 6. We imaged the central 10-pc scale radio jet emission and modelled its brightness distribution. By identifying a jet component at both epochs separated by 15.86 yr, a proper motion of μ = 0.035 ± 0.023 mas yr-1 is found. It corresponds to an apparent superluminal speed of βa = 4.1 ± 2.7 c. Relativistic beaming at both epochs suggests that the jet viewing angle with respect to the line of sight is smaller than 20°, with a minimum bulk Lorentz factor Γ = 4.3. The small value of the proper motion is in good agreement with the expectations from the cosmological interpretation of the redshift and the current cosmological model. Additionally we analysed archival Very Large Array observations of J2143-0419 and found indication of a bent jet extending to ∼30 kpc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent studies suggest that high-energy neutrinos can be produced in the jets of blazars, radio-loud active galactic nuclei (AGN) with jets pointing close to the line of sight. Due to the relatively poor angular resolution of current neutrino detectors, several sources can be regarded as the possible counterpart of a given neutrino event. Therefore, follow-up observations of counterpart candidates in the electromagnetic regime are essential. Since the Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) technique provides the highest angular resolution to study the radio jets of blazars, a growing number of investigations are being conducted to connect individual blazars to given high-energy neutrino events. We analyzed more than 20 years of available archival VLBI data of the blazar CTD 74, which has been listed as a possible counterpart of a neutrino event. Using cm-wavelength data, we investigated the jet structure, determined the apparent speed of jet components, and the core flux density before and after the neutrino event. Our results indicate stationary jet features and a significant brightening of the core after the neutrino event. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-redshift radio-loud quasars are used to, among other things, test the predictions of cosmological models, set constraints on black hole growth in the early Universe and understand galaxy evolution. Prior to this paper, 20 extragalactic radio sources at redshifts above 4.5 have been imaged with very long baseline interferometry (VLBI). Here, we report on observations of an additional ten z > 4.5 sources at 1.7 and 5 GHz with the European VLBI Network, thereby increasing the number of imaged sources by 50 per cent. Combining our newly observed sources with those from the literature, we create a substantial sample of 30 z > 4.5 VLBI sources, allowing us to study the nature of these objects. Using spectral indices, variability and brightness temperatures, we conclude that of the 27 sources with sufficient information to classify, the radio emission from one source is from star formation, 13 are flat-spectrum radio quasars and 13 are steep-spectrum sources. We also argue that the steep-spectrum sources are off-axis (unbeamed) radio sources with rest-frame self-absorption peaks at or below GHz frequencies and that these sources can be classified as gigahertz peaked-spectrum and megahertz peaked-spectrum sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hot dust-obscured galaxies (hot DOGs) are a rare class of hyperluminous infrared galaxies identified with the Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer (WISE) satellite. The majority of them are at high redshifts (z ~ 2-3), at the peak epoch of star formation in the Universe. Infrared, optical, radio, and X-ray data suggest that hot DOGs contain heavily obscured, extremely luminous active galactic nuclei (AGN). This class may represent a short phase in the life of the galaxies, signifying the transition from starburst- to AGN-dominated phases. Hot DOGs are typically radio-quiet, but some of them show mJy-level emission in the radio (microwave) band. We observed four hot DOGs using the technique of very long baseline interferometry (VLBI). The 1.7 GHz observations with the European VLBI Network (EVN) revealed weak radio features in all sources. The radio is free from dust obscuration and, at such high redshifts, VLBI is sensitive only to compact structures that are characteristic ofAGNactivity. In two cases (WISE J0757+5113, WISE J1603+2745), the flux density of the VLBI-detected components is much smaller than the total flux density, suggesting that ~70-90 per cent of the radio emission, while still dominated by AGN, originates from angular scales larger than that probed by the EVN. The source WISE J1146+4129 appears a candidate compact symmetric object, and WISE J1814+3412 shows a 5.1 kpc double structure, reminiscent of hotspots in a medium-sized symmetric object. Our observations support that AGN residing in hot DOGs may be genuine young radio sources where starburst and AGN activities coexist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The extremely high-redshift (z = 5.3) radio source SDSS J102623.61+254259.5 (J1026+2542) is among the most distant and most luminous radio-loud active galactic nuclei (AGN) known to date. Its one-sided radio jet structure on milliarcsecond (mas) and ~10-mas scales typical for blazars was first imaged at 5 GHz with very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) in 2006. Here we report on our dual-frequency (1.7 and 5 GHz) imaging observations performed with the European VLBI Network (EVN) in 2013. The prominent jet structure allows us to identify individual components whose apparent displacement can be detected over the time span of 7.33 yr. This is the first time when jet proper motions are directly derived in a blazar at z > 5. The small values of up to ~0.1 mas yr−1 are consistent with what is expected in a relativistic cosmological model if redshift is a measure of distance. The apparent superluminal jet speeds, considered tentative because derived from two epochs only, exceed 10 c for three different components along the jet. Based on modelling its spectral energy distribution, J1026+2542 is known to have its X-ray jet oriented close to the line of sight, with significant Doppler boosting and a large bulk Lorentz factor (Γ ≈ 13). The new VLBI observations, indicating ~2.3 × 1012 K lower limit to the core brightness temperature, are consistent with this picture. The spectral index in the core region is −0.35. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on its broad-band spectral energy distribution, and the X-ray spectrum in particular, the radio-loud active galactic nucleus (AGN) SDSS J102623.61+254259.5 (J1026+2542) has recently been classified as a blazar. The extremely high redshift of the source, z = 5.3, makes it one of the most distant and most luminous radio-loud AGN known to date. From published 5-GHz very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) imaging data obtained in 2006, the source has a typical blazar appearance on mas scales, with a prominent one-sided jet extending to ∼20 mas. We estimate the brightness temperature of J1026+2542 and find no strong evidence for Doppler boosting. The jet viewing angle is possibly at least ∼20°. The bulk Lorentz factor and the viewing angle of the jet could reliably be determined in the near future from multi-epoch VLBI observations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dwarf galaxies are characterized by a very low luminosity and low mass. Because of significant accretion and ejection activity of massive black holes, some dwarf galaxies also host low-luminosity active galactic nuclei (AGNs). In a few dwarf AGNs, very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) observations have found faint non-thermal radio emission. SDSS J090613.77+561015.2 is a dwarf AGN owning an intermediate-mass black hole (IMBH) with a mass of |$M_\mathrm{BH} = 3.6^{+5.9}_{-2.3}\times 10^5 \mathrm{ M}_{\odot }$| and showing a rarely seen two-component radio structure in its radio nucleus. To further probe their nature, i.e. the IMBH jet activity, we performed additional deep observations with the European VLBI Network (EVN) at 1.66 and 4.99 GHz. We find the more diffuse emission regions and structure details. These new EVN imaging results allow us to reveal a two-sided jet morphology with a size up to about 150 mas (projected length ∼140 pc) and a radio luminosity of about 3 × 1038 erg s−1. The peak feature has an optically thin radio spectrum and thus more likely represents a relatively young ejecta instead of a jet base. The EVN study on SDSS J090613.77+561015.2 demonstrates the existence of episodic, relatively large-scale, and powerful IMBH jet activity in dwarf AGNs. Moreover, we collected a small sample of VLBI-detected dwarf AGNs and investigated their connections with normal AGNs. We notice that these radio sources in the dwarf AGNs tend to have steep spectra and small linear sizes, and possibly represent ejecta from scaled-down episodic jet activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The point source list of the Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe (WMAP) is a uniform, all-sky catalogue of bright sources with flux density measurements at high (up to 94GHz) radio frequencies. We investigated the five-year WMAP list to compile a new catalogue of bright and compact extragalactic radio sources to be potentially studied with Very Long Baseline Interferometry at millimeter wavelengths (mm-VLBI) and Space VLBI (SVLBI). After comparing the WMAP data with the existing mm-VLBI catalogues, we sorted out the yet unexplored sources. Using the 41, 61 and 94GHz WMAP flux densities, we calculated the spectral indices. By collecting optical identifications, lower-frequency radio flux densities and VLBI images from the literature, we created a list of objects which have not been investigated with VLBI at 86GHz before. With total flux density at least 1Jy and declination above −40°, we found 37 suitable new targets. It is a nearly 25% addition to the known mm-VLBI sources. Such objects are also potentially useful as phase-reference calibrators for the future Japanese SVLBI mission ASTRO-G at its highest observing frequency (43GHz). The phase-referencing capability of ASTRO-G would allow long integrations and hence better sensitivity for observing faint target sources close to suitable phase calibrators in the sky. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We briefly introduce radio interferometry and review the image reconstruction methods developed for radio interferometers in the past half a century. We also summarise the similarities and the main differences between radio and optical/infrared interferometry. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The radio-loud quasar CTD 135 (2234+282, J2236+2828) has been proposed as a candidate compact symmetric object (CSO), based on its symmetric radio structure revealed by multi-frequency very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) imaging observations on milliarcsec angular scales. CSOs are known as young jetted active galactic nuclei (AGN) whose relativistic plasma jets are misaligned with respect to the line of sight. The peculiarity of CTD 135 as a CSO candidate was its detection in γ -rays, while the vast majority of known γ -ray emitting AGN are blazars with jets pointing close to our viewing direction. Since only a handful of CSOs are known as γ -ray sources, the unambiguous identification of a single candidate is important for studying this rare class of objects. By collecting and interpreting observational data from the recent literature, we revisit the classification of CTD 135. We present evidence that the object, based on its flat-spectrum radio core with high brightness temperature, variability at multiple wavebands, and infrared colours should be classified as a blazar rather than a CSO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aims to represent the physical properties of a sample of infrared-bright dust-obscured galaxies (DOGs) studied by Suleiman et al. (2022) by fitting the spectral energy distributions (SEDs). Twenty-eight DOGs were examined at redshifts 0.47 ≤ z ≤ 1.63 discovered by combining images of the Subaru Hyper Suprime-Cam (HSC) survey, VISTA Kilo-degree Infrared Galaxy (VIKING) survey, and the Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer (WISE) all-sky survey, and detected at Herschel Spectral and Photometric Imaging Receiver (SPIRE) bands. The results show a correlation between the star formation rate (SFR) and the dust luminosity of Suleiman et al. (2022) DOG sample, the SFR ranges of the sample according to different redshifts, and a comparison between Suleiman et al. (2022) sample and other samples of DOGs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many low-luminosity active galactic nuclei (AGNs) contain a compact radio core which can be observed with high angular resolution using very long baseline interferometry (VLBI). Combining arcsec-scale structural information with milliarcsec-resolution VLBI imaging is a useful way to characterise the objects and to find compact cores on parsec scales. VLBI imaging could also be employed to look for dual AGNs when the sources show kpc-scale double symmetric structure with flat or inverted radio spectra. We observed five such sources at redshifts 0.36 < z < 0.58 taken from an optically selected sample of Type 2 quasars with the European VLBI Network (EVN) at 1.7 and 5 GHz. Out of the five sources, only one (SDSS J1026–0042) shows a confidently detected compact VLBI core at both frequencies. The other four sources are marginally detected at 1.7 GHz only, indicating resolved-out radio structure and steep spectra. Using first-epoch data from the ongoing Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array Sky Survey, we confirm that indeed all four of these sources have steep radio spectra on arcsec scale, contrary to the inverted spectra reported earlier in the literature. However, the VLBI-detected source, SDSS J1026−0042, has a flat integrated spectrum. Radio AGNs that show kpc-scale symmetric structures with truly flat or inverted spectra could still be promising candidates of dual AGNs, to be targeted with VLBI observations in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jets of high-redshift active galactic nuclei (AGNs) can be used to directly probe the activity of the black holes in the early Universe. Radio sources with jets misaligned with respect to the line of sight are expected to dominate the high-redshift AGN population. In this paper, we present the high-resolution imaging results of a z  = 4.57 AGN J2102+6015 by analysing its multi-epoch dual-frequency very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) data. The 8.4-GHz VLBI images reveal two major features along the east–west direction separated by ∼10 mas. From the spectral index map, both features show flat/inverted spectra. The separation between the two features remains almost unchanged over an observation period of ∼13 yr, placing an upper limit of the separation speed as about 0.04 mas yr−1. Previous studies have classified the source as a GHz-peaked spectrum quasar. Our results indicate that J2102+6015 is most likely a young, compact symmetric object rather than a blazar-type core–jet source. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jet component positions with respect to the core as a function of time and the fitted proper motions. The left and right panels show the projected motions along and perpendicular to the jet direction, respectively. High-resolution observations of high-redshift (z > 4) radio quasars offer a unique insight into jet kinematics at early cosmological epochs, as well as constraints on cosmological model parameters. Due to the general weakness of extremely distant objects and the apparently slow structural changes caused by cosmological time dilation, only a couple of high-redshift quasars (HRQs) have been studied with parsec-scale resolutions, and with limited number of observing epochs. Here we report on very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) observations of a high-redshift blazar J1430 + 4204 (z = 4.72) in the 8 GHz frequency band at five different epochs spanning 22 years. The source shows a compact core–jet structure with two jet components being identified within 3 milli-arcsecond (mas) scale. The long time span and multiple-epoch data allow for the kinematic studies of the jet components. That results in a jet proper motion of μ (J 1) = 0.017 ± 0.002 mas a - 1 and μ (J 2) = 0.156 ± 0.015 mas a - 1 , respectively. For the fastest-moving outer jet component J2, the corresponding apparent transverse speed is (19.5 ± 1.9) c. The inferred bulk jet Lorentz factor Γ = 14.6 ± 3.8 and viewing angle θ = 2.2 ° ± 1.6 ° indicate highly relativistic beaming. The Lorentz factor and apparent proper motion are the highest measured to date among the z > 4 jetted radio sources, while the jet kinematics is still consistent with the cosmological interpretation of quasar redshifts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Planetary Radio Interferometry and Doppler Experiment (PRIDE) is a multi-purpose experimental technique aimed at enhancing the science return of planetary missions. The technique exploits the science payload and spacecraft service systems without requiring a dedicated onboard instrumentation or imposing on the existing instrumentation any special for PRIDE requirements. PRIDE is based on the near-field phase-referencing Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) and evaluation of the Doppler shift of the radio signal transmitted by spacecraft by observing it with multiple Earth-based radio telescopes. The methodology of PRIDE has been developed initially at the Joint Institute for VLBI ERIC (JIVE) for tracking the ESA's Huygens Probe during its descent in the atmosphere of Titan in 2005. From that point on, the technique has been demonstrated for various planetary and other space science missions. The estimates of lateral position of the target spacecraft are done using the phase-referencing VLBI technique. Together with radial Doppler estimates, these observables can be used for a variety of applications, including improving the knowledge of the spacecraft state vector. The PRIDE measurements can be applied to a broad scope of research fields including studies of atmospheres through the use of radio occultations, the improvement of planetary and satellite ephemerides, as well as gravity field parameters and other geodetic properties of interest, and estimations of interplanetary plasma properties. This paper presents the implementation of PRIDE as a component of the ESA's Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer (JUICE) mission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radio-loud high-redshift quasars (HRQs), although only a few of them are known to date, are crucial for studies of the growth of supermassive black holes (SMBHs) and the evolution of active galactic nuclei at early cosmological epochs. Radio jets offer direct evidence of SMBHs, and their radio structures can be studied with the highest angular resolution using very long baseline interferometry (VLBI). Here we report on the observations of three HRQs (J0131-0321, J0906+6930 and J1026+2542) at z > 5 using the Korean VLBI Network and VLBI Exploration of Radio Astrometry Arrays (together known as KaVA) with the purpose of studying their pc-scale jet properties. The observations were carried out at 22 and 43 GHz in 2016 January among the first-batch open-use experiments of KaVA. The quasar J0906+6930 was detected at 22 GHz but not at 43 GHz. The other two sources were not detected and upper limits to their compact radio emission are given. Archival VLBI imaging data and the singledish 15-GHz monitoring light curve of J0906+6930 were also acquired as complementary information. J0906+6930 shows a moderate-level variability at 15 GHz. The radio image is characterized by a core-jet structure with a total detectable size of ~5 pc in projection. The brightness temperature, ≳1.9 × 1011 K, indicates relativistic beaming of the jet. The radio properties of J0906+6930 are consistent with a blazar. Follow-up VLBI observations will be helpful for determining its structural variation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radio-loud high-redshift quasars (HRQs), although only a few of them are known to date, are crucial for studies of the growth of supermassive black holes (SMBHs) and the evolution of active galactic nuclei at early cosmological epochs. Radio jets offer direct evidence of SMBHs, and their radio structures can be studied with the highest angular resolution using very long baseline interferometry (VLBI). Here we report on the observations of three HRQs (J0131-0321, J0906+6930 and J1026+2542) at z > 5 using the Korean VLBI Network and VLBI Exploration of Radio Astrometry Arrays (together known as KaVA) with the purpose of studying their pc-scale jet properties. The observations were carried out at 22 and 43 GHz in 2016 January among the first-batch open-use experiments of KaVA. The quasar J0906+6930 was detected at 22 GHz but not at 43 GHz. The other two sources were not detected and upper limits to their compact radio emission are given. Archival VLBI imaging data and the singledish 15-GHz monitoring light curve of J0906+6930 were also acquired as complementary information. J0906+6930 shows a moderate-level variability at 15 GHz. The radio image is characterized by a core-jet structure with a total detectable size of ~5 pc in projection. The brightness temperature, ≳1.9 × 1011 K, indicates relativistic beaming of the jet. The radio properties of J0906+6930 are consistent with a blazar. Follow-up VLBI observations will be helpful for determining its structural variation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to characterize the physical and statistical properties of a sample of infrared-bright dust-obscured galaxies (DOGs) by fitting their spectral energy distributions (SEDs). We examined 28 DOGs at redshifts 0.47 ≤ z ≤ 1.63 discovered by combining images of the Subaru Hyper Suprime-Cam (HSC) survey, the VISTA Kilo-degree Infrared Galaxy (VIKING) survey, and the Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer (WISE) all-sky survey, and detected at Herschel Spectral and Photometric Imaging Receiver (SPIRE) bands. We have detected a significant active galactic nucleus (AGN) contribution to the mid-infrared luminosity for |$71\%$| of DOGs. Our DOGs contain several types of AGNs; the majority of AGN emission originates from Type 2 AGNs. Our DOG sample shows very high values of stellar mass [log (M */ M |${}_\odot $|⁠) = 11.49 ± 1.61] compared with other samples of DOGs selected at infrared wavelengths. Our study is promising to identify a new type of DOGs called "overweight" DOGs (ODOGs). ODOGs may indicate the end of the DOG phase, and then they become visible quasars. Principal component (PC) analysis is applied to reduce the number of dimensions of our sample, removing the dependency on the observed variables. There are two significant PCs describing |$72.7\%$| of the total variance. The first PC strongly correlates with redshift, dust luminosity, dust mass, and stellar mass, while far-ultraviolet (FUV) attenuation strongly correlates with the second PC, which is orthogonal to the first one. The partial correlation between the resulted physical parameters is tested, supporting the reliability of the correlations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultra-high angular resolution in astronomy has always been an important vehicle for making fundamental discoveries. Recent results in direct imaging of the vicinity of the supermassive black hole in the nucleus of the radio galaxy M87 by the millimeter VLBI system Event Horizon Telescope and various pioneering results of the Space VLBI mission RadioAstron provided new momentum in high angular resolution astrophysics. In both mentioned cases, the angular resolution reached the values of about 10–20 microarcseconds (0.05–0.1 nanoradian). Further developments towards at least an order of magnitude "sharper" values, at the level of 1 microarcsecond are dictated by the needs of advanced astrophysical studies. The paper emphasis that these higher values can only be achieved by placing millimeter and submillimeter wavelength interferometric systems in space. A concept of such the system, called Terahertz Exploration and Zooming-in for Astrophysics, has been proposed in the framework of the ESA Call for White Papers for the Voyage 2050 long term plan in 2019. In the current paper we present new science objectives for such the concept based on recent results in studies of active galactic nuclei and supermassive black holes. We also discuss several approaches for addressing technological challenges of creating a millimeter/sub-millimeter wavelength interferometric system in space. In particular, we consider a novel configuration of a space-borne millimeter/sub-millimeter antenna which might resolve several bottlenecks in creating large precise mechanical structures. The paper also presents an overview of prospective space-qualified technologies of low-noise analogue front-end instrumentation for millimeter/sub-millimeter telescopes. Data handling and processing instrumentation is another key technological component of a sub-millimeter Space VLBI system. Requirements and possible implementation options for this instrumentation are described as an extrapolation of the current state-of-the-art Earth-based VLBI data transport and processing instrumentation. The paper also briefly discusses approaches to the interferometric baseline state vector determination and synchronisation and heterodyning system. The technology-oriented sections of the paper do not aim at presenting a complete set of technological solutions for sub-millimeter (terahertz) space-borne interferometers. Rather, in combination with the original ESA Voyage 2050 White Paper, it sharpens the case for the next generation microarcsecond-level imaging instruments and provides starting points for further in-depth technology trade-off studies. • Microarcsecond angular resolution is a key for pioneering discoveries in astronomy. • Microarcsecond sharpness in astronomy can only be achieved by telescopes in space. • Space interferometry at terahertz frequencies - a unique gateway for new science. • In-orbit assembly – a new approach for creating large spaceborne telescopes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the archival ground-based VLBI images of the extragalactic radio sources included in both the Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe (WMAP) and the Planck catalogues, and selected 49 bright and compact sources as potential targets for space Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) observations at mm wavelengths. These sources have a flat radio continuum spectrum between 33 and 94 GHz. They are identified as core-dominated active galactic nuclei (AGN), located at declinations above −40, and have never been observed with ground-based VLBI at 86 GHz. The radio properties of the 49 new sources are presented. We compare this new sample with similar samples of compact AGN available from earlier studies. The new candidates, together with the existing bright compact AGN sample identified from 86-GHz ground-based VLBI imaging surveys, form a catalogue of more than 160 AGN. These could be primary targets for mm-VLBI observations on the ground, as well as for future mm-wavelength space VLBI missions such as the project with two satellites currently under study in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the ESA Voyage 2050 White Paper for a concept of TeraHertz Exploration and Zooming-in for Astrophysics (THEZA). It addresses the science case and some implementation issues of a space-borne radio interferometric system for ultra-sharp imaging of celestial radio sources at the level of angular resolution down to (sub-) microarcseconds. THEZA focuses at millimetre and sub-millimetre wavelengths (frequencies above ∼ 300 GHz), but allows for science operations at longer wavelengths too. The THEZA concept science rationale is focused on the physics of spacetime in the vicinity of supermassive black holes as the leading science driver. The main aim of the concept is to facilitate a major leap by providing researchers with orders of magnitude improvements in the resolution and dynamic range in direct imaging studies of the most exotic objects in the Universe, black holes. The concept will open up a sizeable range of hitherto unreachable parameters of observational astrophysics. It unifies two major lines of development of space-borne radio astronomy of the past decades: Space VLBI (Very Long Baseline Interferometry) and mm- and sub-mm astrophysical studies with "single dish" instruments. It also builds upon the recent success of the Earth-based Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) – the first-ever direct image of a shadow of the super-massive black hole in the centre of the galaxy M87. As an amalgam of these three major areas of modern observational astrophysics, THEZA aims at facilitating a breakthrough in high-resolution high image quality studies in the millimetre and sub-millimetre domain of the electromagnetic spectrum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present high-resolution radio interferometric imaging observations of the radio source NVSS J182659+343113 (hereafter J1826+3431), the proposed radio counterpart of the γ -ray source, 3EG J1824+3441 detected by the Energetic Gamma Ray Experiment Telescope (EGRET) on board the Compton Gamma Ray Observatory satellite. We analyzed eight epochs of archival multi-frequency very long baseline interferometry data. We imaged the asymmetric core–jet structure of the source, and detected apparent superluminal motion in the jet. At the highest observing frequency, 15.3 GHz, the core shows high brightness temperature indicating Doppler boosting. Additionally, the radio features undergo substantial flux density variability. These findings strengthen the previous claim of the association of the blazar J1826+3431 with the possible γ -ray source, 3EG J1824+3441. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-redshift quasars are important to study galaxy and active galactic nuclei evolution, test cosmological models and study supermassive black hole growth. Optical searches for high-redshift sources have been very successful, but radio searches are not hampered by dust obscuration and should be more effective at finding sources at even higher redshifts. Identifying high-redshift sources based on radio data is, however, not trivial. Here we report on newmultifrequency Giant MetrewaveRadio Telescope observations of eight z >4.5 sources previously studied at high angular resolution with very long baseline interferometry (VLBI). Combining these observations with those from the literature, we construct broad-band radio spectra of all 30 z > 4.5 sources that have been observed with VLBI. In the sample we found flat, steep and peaked spectra in approximately equal proportions. Despite several selection effects, we conclude that the z > 4.5 VLBI (and likely also non-VLBI) sources have diverse spectra and that only about a quarter of the sources in the sample have flat spectra. Previously, the majority of high-redshift radio sources were identified based on their ultrasteep spectra. Recently, a new method has been proposed to identify these objects based on their megahertzpeaked spectra. No method would have identified more than 18 per cent of the high-redshift sources in this sample. More effective methods are necessary to reliably identify complete samples of high-redshift sources based on radio data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Megahertz peaked-spectrum (MPS) sources have spectra that peak at frequencies below 1 GHz in the observer's frame and are believed to be radio-loud active galactic nuclei (AGN). We recently presented a new method to search for high-redshift AGN by identifying unusually compact MPS sources. In this paper, we present European VLBI Network (EVN) observations of 11 MPS sources which we use to determine their sizes and investigate the nature of the sources with ~10 mas resolution. Of the 11 sources, we detect 9 with the EVN. Combining the EVN observations with spectral and redshift information, we show that the detected sources are all AGN with linear sizes smaller than 1.1 kpc and are likely young. This shows that low-frequency colour-colour diagrams are an easy and efficient way of selecting small AGN and explains our high detection fraction (82 per cent) in comparison to comparable surveys. Finally we argue that the detected sources are all likely compact symmetric objects and that none of the sources are blazars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quest for binary and dual supermassive black holes (SMBHs) at the dawn of the multi-messenger era is compelling. Detecting dual active galactic nuclei (AGN) – active SMBHs at projected separations larger than several parsecs – and binary AGN – probing the scale where SMBHs are bound in a Keplerian binary – is an observational challenge. The study of AGN pairs (either dual or binary) also represents an overarching theoretical problem in cosmology and astrophysics. The AGN triggering calls for detailed knowledge of the hydrodynamical conditions of gas in the imminent surroundings of the SMBHs and, at the same time, their duality calls for detailed knowledge on how galaxies assemble through major and minor mergers and grow fed by matter along the filaments of the cosmic web. This review describes the techniques used across the electromagnetic spectrum to detect dual and binary AGN candidates and proposes new avenues for their search. The current observational status is compared with the state-of-the-art numerical simulations and models for formation of dual and binary AGN. Binary SMBHs are among the loudest sources of gravitational waves (GWs) in the Universe. The search for a background of GWs at nHz frequencies from inspiralling SMBHs at low redshifts, and the direct detection of signals from their coalescence by the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna in the next decade, make this a theme of major interest for multi-messenger astrophysics. This review discusses the future facilities and observational strategies that are likely to significantly advance this fascinating field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]