Effects of Scalar-Tensor-Vector Gravity on relativistic jets

TL;DR

This paper tests Scalar-Tensor-Vector Gravity (STVG) against M87 jet observations, deriving equations, developing numerical tools, and setting new limits on STVG parameters, suggesting it remains compatible with data and could explain jet formation.

Contribution

It provides the first constraints on STVG parameters using relativistic jet data from M87, combining theoretical derivations and numerical analysis.

Findings

STVG deviates from General Relativity in jet dynamics

New upper limits on STVG parameters are established

STVG remains compatible with M87 observational data

Abstract

Scalar-Tensor-Vector Gravity (STVG) is a theory that does not require dark components to describe astrophysical data. We aim at constraining the free parameters of STVG based on recent observations of the jet in M87. We derive the equations of motion for particles in STVG-Kerr spacetime, we develop a numerical code that integrates such equations, and apply it to the jet of M87. We find that STVG deviates from GR and we set new upper limits for the free parameters of the former. We conclude that STVG is not contradicted by the observational data of M87, and may help to explain jet formation.