BL Lacertae objects: The case for synchronous optical-radio outbursts in OJ 287

Photometry of the BL Lacertae object OJ 287 on Palomar 48-in Schmidt plates is given, covering the years 1966--1978. An optical light curve for the period 1966--1976, constructed from all published photometry, along with radio light curves for wavelengths of 3 mm--18 cm, shows evidence for the existence of discrete bursts. The likelihood that most of the optical bursts are synchronous with radio counterparts is discussed. Some theoretical implications of a purely synchrotron interpretation are explored. The final section contains a summary of the results