# Gemini Mid-IR Polarimetry of NGC1068: Polarized Structures Around the Nucleus

## TL;DR

This study uses high-resolution mid-infrared polarimetry to reveal the structure and polarization mechanisms around the nucleus of NGC1068, providing new insights into the AGN's dusty environment.

## Contribution

First mid-IR polarimetric imaging of NGC1068 with an 8-m class telescope, identifying distinct polarized regions and linking the torus to the host galaxy environment.

## Key findings

- Identified three polarized regions around the nucleus.
- Detected a compact torus consistent with polarization minimum.
- Provided the first mid-IR polarimetry data from an 8-m class telescope.

## Abstract

We present diffraction limited, 10um imaging polarimetry data for the central regions of the archetypal Seyfert AGN, NGC1068. The position angle of polarization is consistent with three dominant polarizing mechanisms. We identify three distinct regions of polarization: (a) north of the nucleus, arising from aligned dust in the NLR, (b) south, east and west of the nucleus, consistent with dust being channeled toward the central engine and (c) a central minimum of polarization consistent with a compact (<22pc) torus. These observations provide continuity between the geometrically and optically thick torus and the host galaxy's nuclear environments. These images represent the first published mid-IR polarimetry from an 8-m class telescope and illustrate the potential of such observations.