April 14, 2010 - "Galaxy Bulge Formation: Observational
Perspectives" - Dr. Lauren MacArthur, HIA - Post Doctorate
Understanding
the formation and evolution of disk galaxies, in particular the formation of
their spheroidal (or bulge) components, remains a challenge from both the
theoretical and observational perspectives. Originally thought to form early
times (high-redshift) through violent and rapid processes, similar to pure
spheroidal (or elliptical) galaxies, recent observations have challenged these
views suggesting ongoing formation, possibly related to the presence of the
surrounding spiral disk. From the observational point of view, formation
histories of galaxy bulges can be probed locally (fossil record) using detailed
observations of bulge structure and stellar content, and directly (formation in
situ) using observations as a function of look-back time (redshift). In this
talk, I will present results from both perspectives and discuss them in the
context of currently favoured bulge formation scenarios.
Presentation (30Mb pdf) -
please right click and download this large pdf!
Bio: After completing a BSc in physics at the
University of Guelph, Lauren spent 5 years at the University of British Columbia
completing her MSc and PhD in astronomy, both under the supervision of Prof.
Stephane Courteau (now at Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario). Lauren then
went to Caltech in Pasadena, California for a 3-year postdoc position with Prof.
Richard Ellis. She is now a postdoc at UVic/HIA working with Dr. Laura Ferrarese
and the Next Generation Virgo Cluster Survey team.
CV
Unveiling Galaxy
Bulge Formation with Gemini-GMOS - Gemini Observatory - online article by
MacArthur, et. al.
