Status / Challenges:
Observational studies of AGN cover the entire electromagnetic spectrum from X-rays to radio wavelengths. Additionally, with blazars suggesting a connection to neutrinos, AGN studies also reach into the domain of multi-messenger astronomy. Investigating the properties of AGN allows us to further understand the black-hole and host galaxy connection which is critical to answering some open questions related to how galaxies evolve. We wish to bring together the latest results in both observations and simulations, and (particularly) to showcase southern-hemisphere telescopes (MeerKAT, SALT, HESS, VLT, ALMA, MWA, SKA* , etc). We also wish to discuss publication of ‘null results’, and to promote a hybrid format for aiding accessibility, inclusion, and sustainability during the climate crisis (which disproportionately affects the African continent). GA 2024 will be 5 years after IAU Symposium 356 (held in Ethiopia), and so an excellent follow-up to the previous AGN discussion and outreach that took place there.
* The GA is around the time of array assembly 0.5, and array assembly 1 (8 dishes, 18 low stations) is only a few months after the GA
Actions:
- Advertise symposium idea to garner community support
- Establish SOC (international) and LOC
- Seek letters of support from SPARCS, SARAO, SKAO, SAAO, HESS, ESO, IAU Division J, OAD, Astronomers for Planet Earth
- Contact ALL possible IAU Divisions and Commissions for their input and support.
Potential Stakeholders:
Sthabile Kolwa (UJ) & Sarah White (RU, IAU Junior Member)