I Measuring the rotation curve of galaxies

AI Thread Summary
To measure the rotation speed of galaxies and generate rotation curves, start by exploring the SPARC database, which provides extensive data for such measurements. Understanding the methodologies used in the database, as detailed in literature by Stacy McGaugh, will be beneficial. Additionally, familiarize yourself with astrophysical distance measurement techniques and spectral analysis. Key resources include textbooks like Binney & Tremaine and Bovy's Interactive Galaxies Textbook for foundational knowledge. Engaging with these materials will guide you in conducting scientifically accurate measurements.
accdd
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What should I learn to make astrophysical measurements from open data?
Suppose I want to measure the rotation speed of galaxies to generate galactic rotation curves like these: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galaxy_rotation_curve
What should I do and what should I learn?
I think I should get some data from a radio telescope, measure the distance to the galaxy and compare the emission frequencies of the left and right sides. Anything else?
How is everything done in a scientifically correct way?
I have chosen "I" as the level of the question, but any answer of any level is welcome, even "B" and "A"
Thank you
 
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accdd said:
What should I do and what should I learn?
You could start with this paper which summarizes what has been analyzed from the SPARC database -- which already contains a large body of data for the measurements you wanted. I.e., you'd learn a lot just by acquiring an understanding of how the SPARC database was produced, much of which is explained in the literature by Stacy McGaugh and in his courses.

If you follow its references backwards, you'll eventually get into (i.e., devoured by) the vast body of theory about measuring astrophysical distance, spectral analysis, and so on. :oldfrown:

There's encyclopaedic textbooks like Binney & Tremaine. Also Bovy's Interactive Galaxies Textbook.
 
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