Mid-Range Science Objectives for the Event Horizon Telescope

TL;DR

This paper outlines a five-year scientific framework for the Event Horizon Telescope, emphasizing new data analysis, technical upgrades, and multi-wavelength observations to advance understanding of black hole physics and related phenomena.

Contribution

It presents a structured plan for EHT research, integrating recent data, technical improvements, and multi-facility coordination to address key questions in black hole science.

Findings

First movie of M87* connecting black hole and jet physics

Detailed studies of the structure and dynamics of Sgr A*

Enhanced polarimetric imaging of black hole magnetospheres

Abstract

The first images of the black holes in Sagittarius A* and M87* have created a wide range of new scientific opportunities in gravitational physics, compact objects, and relativistic astrophysics. We discuss here the scientific opportunities that arise from the rich data sets that have already been obtained and the new data sets that will be obtained, exploiting a wide range of technical advances, including observational agility, receiver upgrades, and the addition of new stations. This document provides a 5-year framework for Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) science structured around four fundamental questions that are used to prioritize the analysis of existing data, guide technical upgrades, and determine the optimal use of future observational opportunities with EHT, ALMA, and multi-wavelength facilities. Through enhancements over this period, the EHT will create the first movie of M87* connecting black hole and jet physics, provide detailed studies of the structure and dynamics of Sgr A*, characterize the magnetospheres of both systems through polarimetric imaging, and explore the spacetime properties of black holes with greater precision and range.