3C 273 - A gravitationally lensed quasar?

Abstract

It is suggested that the abnormal brightness of the quasar 3C 273, coupled with the observations of superluminal motions in its radio core B as well as the misalignment of its VLBI jet with the optical jet, can be understood by postulating a faint spheroidal lensing galaxy located about halfway along the line of sight to the quasar. The lens model also helps to understand why the quasar is found slightly off-centre with respect to its nebulosity. The probability for such a lens system to arise for 3C 273 by chance is shown to be no less than that computed on the basis of the relativistic beaming hypothesis. Further tests of the lens model are discussed.