SUMMARY
Galactic rotation is measured using the redshift of emission or absorption lines from gas, which reveals the velocity of stars in relation to their distance from the galactic center. Observations indicate that stars farther from the center exhibit velocities significantly higher than expected, leading to the conclusion that dark matter is a crucial factor in explaining these discrepancies. Research spanning nearly 90 years and thousands of galaxies supports these findings, despite the presence of measurement errors. Both our Milky Way and other galaxies are studied to understand these dynamics.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of redshift and its application in astronomy
- Familiarity with emission and absorption lines in spectral analysis
- Basic knowledge of dark matter and its role in astrophysics
- Awareness of galactic structure and dynamics
NEXT STEPS
- Research the methods of measuring redshift in astronomical observations
- Explore the concept of dark matter and its implications for galactic rotation
- Study the techniques used in spectral analysis of emission and absorption lines
- Investigate the historical context and evolution of galactic rotation studies over the past 90 years
USEFUL FOR
Astronomers, astrophysicists, and students of cosmology interested in understanding the dynamics of galaxies and the role of dark matter in galactic rotation.