High Resolution Imaging of the Core of Maffei 1, the Nearest Normal Massive Elliptical Galaxy

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Hst Proposal Id #8101 Galaxy Structure And Dynamics

Scientific paper

We propose to obtain high resolution optical images of the center of the galaxy Maffei 1, which is the nearest normal intermediate to giant elliptical galaxy. Recent studies have shown that Maffei 1 is much larger {D_0 = 25^ } and brighter {V_T^0 = 6.4} than previously thought, and that it is only 2.7 +/- 0.6 Mpc distant. This is one-sixth the distance to the Virgo and Fornax Cluster ellipticals, and 1 pixel in the Planetary Camera {PC} field covers only 0.5-0.7 pc. Thus, with HST, we have the opportunity of studying the core of a normal massive elliptical galaxy {M_V = -20.7} at sub-parsec spatial resolution. Besides revealing the profile of light in the core, which is invaluable for assessing the extent to which dissipation affected evolution, our images will be used to search for evidence of a central concentration of mass, including an accretion disk that might surround a supermassive black hole. Because of the proximity of Maffei 1, we will be able to identify a cen tr al black hole of considerably less mass

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