The compact radio nucleus of the Seyfert galaxy NGC 1068

Abstract

We present a 5-GHz MERllN map of the central arcsecond of the Seyfert 2 galaxy NGC 1068. We detect the four-component structure reported in earlier observations. The higher angular resolution and sensitivity of the MERllN measurements show extended emission consistent with a flaring jet which appears to originate from the vicinity of a 100-mas compact double source. On~ of the components in the 100-mas double has an inverted spectral index, and hence 'we identify this as a 'radio core' at the active nucleus of the galaxy. We have evaluated previous positions, and by use of improved calibrator positions determine the J2000 position of the inverted spectrum core/nucleus to be at RA= 02h42m40~7098, Dec. = -0000'4 7'~938, with an error of 20 mas in each coordinate.