Kiloparsec-scale jet-driven feedback in AGN probed by highly ionized gas: a MUSE/VLT perspective

TL;DR

This study uses MUSE/VLT optical spectroscopy combined with X-ray and radio data to explore the extended highly-ionized gas in nearby AGN, revealing complex morphologies and shock excitation linked to radio jets, highlighting mechanical feedback effects.

Contribution

It provides new insights into the spatial extent and morphology of highly-ionized gas in AGN, emphasizing the role of radio jets in shock excitation and feedback mechanisms.

Findings

HIG extends up to 2 kpc from the nucleus.

Gas morphology closely follows radio jet and X-ray emission.

Shock excitation is indicated by emission line ratios.

Abstract

We employ optical spectroscopy from the Multi Unit Spectroscopic Explorer (MUSE) combined with X-ray and radio data to study the highly-ionized gas (HIG) phase of the feedback in a sample of five local nearby Active Galactic Nuclei (AGN). Thanks to the superb field of view and sensitivity of MUSE, we found that the HIG, traced by the coronal line [FeVII] $\lambda$6089, extends to scales not seen before, from 700 pc in Circinus and up to ~2 kpc in NGC5728 and NGC3393. The gas morphology is complex, following closely the radio jet and the X-ray emission. Emission line ratios suggest gas excitation by shocks produced by the passage of the radio jet. This scenario is further supported by the physical conditions derived for the HIG, stressing the importance of the mechanical feedback in AGN with low-power radio jets.