Brackett alpha images of the Galactic center

Abstract
Images of the central parsec of the galaxy have been obtained in the Brα emission line of hydrogen. The images are, for the most part, very similar to 5 and 15 GHz radio continuum images of this region. Alignment of the Brα with the radio images gives an improved position of the Sgr A* radio point source with respect to the infrared sources: 5.50‘ S and 0.15‘ W of IRS 7, a position remarkably devoid of compact objects in the near infrared. This position rules out identification of Sgr A* with IRS 16 Centre or IRS 16NW. A number of compact Brα sources with no radio counter‐parts are seen. There is a string of four sources just north of Sgr A*, which itself is located in a Brα void. An isolated Brα source was also seen ≊10‘ SW or Sgr A*. These Brα sources may arise in very dense regions (optically thick in the radio), may be very cold, or may result from collosional excitation. They may also indicate the presence of local exciting sources in the central parsec.