Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astrophysics
Scientific paper
2008-04-11
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astrophysics
10 pages, A&A, in press
Scientific paper
10.1051/0004-6361:200809653
We analyse high-resolution Hubble Space Telescope/Advanced Camera for Surveys imaging of the nuclear starburst region of M82, obtained as part of the Hubble Heritage mosaic made of this galaxy, in four filters (Johnson-Cousins equivalent B, V, and I broad bands, and an Halpha narrow-band filter), as well as subsequently acquired U-band images. We find a complex system of ~150 star clusters in the inner few 100 pc of the galaxy. We do not find any conclusive evidence of a cluster-formation epoch associated with the most recent starburst event, believed to have occurred about 4-6 Myr ago. This apparent evidence of decoupling between cluster and field-star formation is consistent with the view that star cluster formation requires special conditions. However, we strongly caution, and provide compelling evidence, that the `standard' simple stellar population analysis method we have used significantly underestimates the true uncertainties in the derived ages due to stochasticity in the stellar initial mass function and the corresponding sampling effects.
Barker Stephen
Cervino Miguel
de Grijs Richard
No associations
LandOfFree
Star cluster versus field star formation in the nucleus of the prototype starburst galaxy M82 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 Star cluster versus field star formation in the nucleus of the prototype starburst galaxy M82, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Star cluster versus field star formation in the nucleus of the prototype starburst galaxy M82 will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-706976