Other
Scientific paper
Jul 2005
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2005hst..prop10572l&link_type=abstract
HST Proposal ID #10572
Other
Hst Proposal Id #10572 Stellar Populations
Scientific paper
We propose to observe the M32 main-sequence turnoff {MSTO} with deep ACS/HRC B and V images. Only the superior resolution and blue sensitivity of ACS/HRC make this possible. M32 is the only elliptical galaxy close enough to allow direct observation of its MSTO - it is a vital laboratory for deciphering the stellar populations of all other elliptical galaxies, which can only be studied by the spectra of their integrated light, given their greater distances. Major questions about M32's star formation history remain unanswered. Spectral studies suggest that M32 underwent a recent burst of star formation 3 to 8 billion years ago; observation of the M32 MSTO will confirm this directly. In the process, ACS will easily resolve more luminous components: hot blue stars, luminous, intermediate-age red clump and AGB stars, and any extended blue horizontal branch. These detailed CMDs will provide a direct comparison with population synthesis models for M32, providing a bridge to studies of the integrated light of more distant elliptical galaxies, a crucial ingredient for understanding their star formation histories. As M32 is projected against the edge of the M31 disk, an essential part of our proposal includes deep observation of an M31 disk field to allow the M32 photometry to be background corrected. These observations will reveal the star formation history of M31's outer disk and are thus of interest in their own right.
No associations
LandOfFree
Resolving M32's Main Sequence: A Critical Test for Stellar Population Studies does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with Resolving M32's Main Sequence: A Critical Test for Stellar Population Studies, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Resolving M32's Main Sequence: A Critical Test for Stellar Population Studies will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1250323