NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2007A-0516
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NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2007A-0516 |
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PI: Katie Chynoweth, Vanderbilt University, katie.m.chynoweth@vanderbilt.edu
Address: Physics Department, VU Station B 351807, Nashvile, TN 37235-1807, USA
CoI: Robert Knop, Vanderbilt University
CoI: Rachel Gibbons, Vanderbilt University
Title: Exploring the Merger/Starburst/AGN Connection in Nearby Infrared- Luminous Galaxies
Abstract:
We propose to explore the connection between galaxy interactions,
starburst activity, and (in a few cases) AGN activity by obtaining
spatially resolved optical spectroscopy 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. These data in combination with similar data obtained for
southern galaxies will contribute to understanding of interacting
galaxies, galaxy evolution, and star formation. We will use line
ratios, velocities, and profile as a means of tracing the dynamics of
the gas, the age, strength, and progress of starburst activity
throughout the system, and (for those few galaxies that show it)
dynamical processes (e.g. outflows) arising from a central AGN.
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 > 2007A-0516 |
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