VIRUS-W Observing trip: Uncovering the effect of spiral and bar resonances in disk galaxies

• Applicant: Dr. Joris Gerssen
• Subject Area: Astrophysics and Astronomy
• Term: Funded in 2012
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 227721323

Recent theoretical work shows that interaction between non-axisymmetric structures in disks and the halo affects galaxy evolution processes by inducing star formation and disk mixing. We have developed extensive dynamical models that separate the effects of the two main non-axisymmetric structures (bars and spirals) by their different resonance signatures in the stellar kinematics. The quantitative predictions of our models are compatible with the properties of the VIRUS-W IFU.To test these predictions we have been awarded six nights of observing time in June 2012 with the VIRUS-W Integral Field Spectrograph. In this pilot study we will observe two spiral- and two bar-dominated disk galaxies to validate our models and to improve our understanding of the internal processes that drive galaxy evolution.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants