Numerical simulations of jets

Abstract

When astrophysical jets were discovered one hundred years ago, the field of numerical simulations did not yet exit. Since the arrival of programmable computers though, numerical simulations have increasingly become an indispensable tool for dealing with “tough nut” problems which involve complex dynamic and non-linear phenomena. Astrophysical jets are an ideal example of such a tough nut, where multi-scale plasma physics, radiative and non-thermal processes, turbulence and relativity combine to present a formidable challenge to researchers.

Highlighting major achievements obtained through numerical simulations concerning the validity and nature of the Blandford–Znajek mechanism, the launching, collimation, acceleration and stability of jets, their interaction with the surrounding plasma, jet-galaxy feedback mechanisms etc., we trace how the field developed from its first tentative steps into the age of “maturity”. We also give a brief and personal outlook on how the field may evolve in the foreseeable future.