NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2006A-0462
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NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2006A-0462 |
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PI: Katie Chynoweth, Vanderbilt University, katie.m.chynoweth@vanderbilt.edu
Address: Physics Department, VU Station B 351807, Nashville, TN 37235-1807, USA
CoI: Robert Knop, Vanderbilt University
CoI: Rachel Gibbons, Vanderbilt University
Title: Spatially Resolved Kinematics and Excitation of Ionized Gas in Starburst Galaxies
Abstract:
We propose to obtain spectroscopic datacubes of a sample of 11
infrared-luminous galaxies. The targets are chosen from the IRAS Bright
Galaxy Sample (BGS), all of which show evidence for an ongoing
starburst. Additionally, many of these galaxies are advanced mergers,
or show clear signs of strong interactions. The kinematics of these
galaxies are complicated, and many of them have significant off-nuclear
star formation activity. We plan to use the DensePak Fiber Array on the
WIYN 3.5m telescope to obtain spectra across the entire face of each
galaxy system. The strengths, distributions, profiles, and velocities
of the lines will allow us to study the kinematics and excitation of the
ionized and heated gas in these galaxies. Emission line equivalent
widths and line ratios will further allow us to apply diagnostics to
investigate the star formation age, the abundances, and the ionization
parameter as a function of position throughout each galaxy. These data
in combination with similar data obtained for southern galaxies will
contribute to understanding of interacting galaxies, galaxy evolution,
and star formation.
National Optical Astronomy Observatory, 950 North Cherry Avenue, P.O. Box 26732, Tucson, Arizona 85726, Phone: (520) 318-8000, Fax: (520) 318-8360
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NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2006A-0462 |
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