Speaker
Description
Radio galaxies, which emit significant radio-frequency radiation from their active cores, serve as powerful probes of supermassive black hole activity, galaxy evolution, and the physical conditions of their surrounding environments. The Africa Millimetre Telescope (AMT), which is upcoming and to be constructed in the Khomas Highlands of Namibia, will join the global Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) network, enabling improved angular resolution and the capability to produce colour movies of black hole dynamics. As a future continental pillar for millimetre/sub-millimetre astronomy, the AMT requires optimised observational strategies that fully exploit its scientific potential. This study focuses on developing a framework for estimating optimal observation times for monitoring radio galaxies with the AMT. Using flux-density information from the Leptohadronic multi-messenger modelling catalogue of 324 γ-ray blazars, the transient behaviour of target sources is analysed to determine favourable observing conditions. The methodology incorporates AMT-specific constraints such as zenith and elevation angles, atmospheric transparency, and signal-to-noise requirements to derive optimal integration periods and long-term monitoring schedules. By leveraging quantitative techniques, data-analysis tools, and theoretical models, this work aims to establish the relationship between flux density variability and practical observing parameters. The results will support the efficient use of telescope time, minimise atmospheric effects, improve tracking accuracy, and enhance coordination with the global EHT network. Ultimately, this study contributes to preparing robust observational strategies that will strengthen Africa’s role in high-resolution radio astronomy and advance our understanding of active galactic nuclei.
| Stream | Science or Engineering |
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