A search of arc-minute extended radio emission in the Cygnus X-3 vicinity

Abstract

We present a new search for possible extended radio features in the Cygnus X-3 environment as a result of the persistent flaring history of this microquasar. We focus our attention here on few arc-minute angular scales, i.e., closer than previously explored. This work is mostly based on the analysis of VLA archive data, including the CGPS and GB6 surveys. We also use deep near infrared observations obtained by ourselves in 2005.Our main result is a new radio map of Cygnus X-3 obtained after combining multi-configuration VLA archive data at 6 cm. This is probably the deepest radio image of this microquasar reported up to date at cm wavelengths (rms noise 9.5 µJy/beam). It reveals a curious plume of extended radio emission, just within a few arc-minute from the microquasar position, with a morphology reminiscent of some radiogalaxies like 3C 264 and possibly non-thermal. Its physical connection with the microquasar is tentatively considered. We also report on the serendipitous discovery of a Fanaroff-Riley type II radio galaxy very close in the sky to Cygnus X-3. This provides a curious 'family picture' of two accreting sources in the same shot. From Planets to Dark Energy: the Modern Radio Universe