Millimeter VLBI Observations of the Gamma-Ray Blazar NRAO 530

Abstract

We present here 3 epochs of 3 and 7 millimeter wavelength VLBI observations and 2 epochs of lower frequency VLBA imaging of the gamma-ray blazar NRAO 530. These observations document the evolution of the parsec scale jet in this source during the brightest flare in 3 decades. New jet components were created during the flare and are probably related to an increase in gamma-ray activity. The components travel at superluminal velocities, further confirming the connection between superluminal sources and gamma-ray blazars. The rapid evolution of the source makes tracking of components difficult. It appears that either components significantly decelerate or that there is rapid cooling and acceleration of elections. We may be identifying structure due to standing shocks. The jet is bent on all scales between 100 μarcsec to 10 arcsec. The results indicate the ability of 3 mm wavelength imaging to probe the nuclei of blazars rapidly and reliably.