Bright outburst of the blazar 4C 31.03

Active Dates: Jan. 1, 2023 – Jan. 1, 2023


Abstract:

The blazar 4C 31.03 is undergoing an unprecedentedly bright outburst. Ciprini et al. report that gamma-ray flaring in this Active Galactic Nucleus (AGN) was detected by the Fermi Large Area Telescope (LAT) on 2023 January 1 and 2. Follow-up optical observations by Seiichiro Kiyota show the quasar brighter than ever previously detected. Sebastián Otero provides the compiled historical light curve demonstrating the unusual nature of the current outburst.

Justification:

Follow-up observations in all filters (UBVRI) are recommended until the quasar has returned to its normal behavior. DSLR observations are also welcome. The usual range of 4C 31.03 is V magnitude 15-19.

Requested Data Types:

Photometry



Targets
Name Magnitude Variability Type Photometry Notes Spectroscopy Notes
4C 31.03 12.40 AGN

Cadence: Not Specified

Precision: 100

Not Requested

Spectroscopy Lines:

No spectroscopy lines provided

Photometry Filters:

No photometry filters provided

Comparison Stars:

No comparison stars provided


Co-Authorship

Observers are not eligible for co-authorship.

Additional Observer Input:

Not provided

Additional Submission Location:

Not provided


Forum URL

N/A


Notes:

Principal Investigator: Elizabeth O. Waagen; Imported Campaign (Alert Notice #808)