Undergrad Andromeda vs. Milky Way galaxies

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the contrasting characteristics of the Andromeda and Milky Way galaxies, specifically their diameters, masses, and the implications of their upcoming collision. Andromeda has a diameter of 220,000 light years and a mass of 1,230 billion solar masses, while the Milky Way measures 105,700 light years and 1,500 billion solar masses. The conversation highlights the paradox of Andromeda being larger yet lighter, and speculates on the potential outcomes of their merger, termed "Milkomeda." The discussion also references the significant role of dark matter and the dynamics of stellar collisions during the merger.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of galactic structures and classifications, including Low-Surface Brightness (LSB) galaxies.
  • Familiarity with black hole mass measurements and their implications in galactic dynamics.
  • Knowledge of galaxy mergers and their effects on star formation rates.
  • Basic principles of astrophotography and the interpretation of astronomical images.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the Mass-Radius Relation in early-type galaxies and its implications during galactic mergers.
  • Explore the role of dark matter in galaxy formation and its influence on the Milky Way and Andromeda.
  • Investigate the dynamics of galaxy collisions and the resulting star formation rates during mergers.
  • Learn about the Gaia mission's contributions to measuring galactic motion and its impact on collision predictions.
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, astrophysicists, and astronomy enthusiasts interested in galactic dynamics, the study of galaxy mergers, and the characteristics of the Andromeda and Milky Way galaxies.

  • #31
I don't know about that. See, I'd count cosmology as being in the high-precision bucket. Especially since I tend to think of CMB data as its cornerstone, more so than anything local.
Anyhow, last time I heard Reiss give a talk (online, not in person), it was a CfA colloquium about getting the precision of local H0 measurements down to 1% or something. He did mention the systematic issue with different instrument being used to collect data for same SNIa events, but in the context of past practices as opposed to his team's current effort.
But then again, I have no hands-on knowledge on how the sausage is made.
 

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