1999ApJ...521..103P

We present results of VLA and VLBA observations of the 1.420 GHz neutral hydrogen absorption associated with the compact symmetric object 1946+708 (z=0.101). We find significant structure in the gas on parsec scales. The peak column density in the H I [N_H I_≃2.2x10²³ cm^–2 (T_s/8000 K)] occurs toward the center of activity of the source, as does the highest velocity dispersion (ΔV_FWHM≃350 km.s^–1). In addition, we find that the continuum spectra of the various radio components associated with these jets strongly indicate free-free absorption. This effect is particularly pronounced toward the core and inner components of the receding jet, suggesting the presence of a screen local to the source, perhaps part of an obscuring torus.