The amplitude of the magnetic field near the Galactic Centre has been uncertain by two orders of magnitude for several decades. A compilation of previous data now reveals a downward break in the region's non-thermal radio spectrum; this requires that the Galactic Centre field be at least ∼50 microgauss on 400 parsec scales, with evidence supporting a field of 100 microgauss. This would imply that over 10% of the Galaxy's magnetic energy is contained in only around 0.05% (or less) of its volume.
- Roland M. Crocker
- David I. Jones
- Raymond J. Protheroe