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Astronomy and Astrophysics, 2024, 682, A187
Gravitation
Gravitational lensing: strong
Methods: statistical
Galaxies: clusters: individual: SDSS J1004+4112
Cosmological parameters
Cosmology: theory
We present a free-form lens model for the multiply lensed quasar in the galaxy cluster SDSS J1004+4112. Our lens model draws minimal assumptions on the distribution of mass in the lens plane. We have paid particular attention to the model uncertainties on the predicted time delay originating from the particular configuration of model variables. Taking into account this uncertainty, we obtained a value of the Hubble constant of H₀ = 74+⁹−₁₃ km s−¹ Mpc−¹, which is consistent with recent independent estimates. The predicted time
delay between the central image E and image C (the first to arrive) is ∆TE−C = 3200 ± 200 days for the estimated Hubble constant. Future measurements of ∆TE−C will allow for a tighter constraint to be imposed on H0 in this cluster-QSO system.