Constraining Ultra-Diffuse Galaxy Formation using Neutral Hydrogen (HI) Observations

Dr. Ananthan Karunakaran
Postdoctoral fellow, University of Toronto

Abstract

With the advent of modern wide-field sky surveys and improved astronomical instrumentation, we have been able to probe further down the galaxy luminosity and mass function. One of the most intriguing discoveries from the last decade in this regime is a large population of extremely faint, extended galaxies called Ultra-Diffuse Galaxies (UDGs). The sheer quantity and diversity of these objects have led to many follow-up studies, both observational and in simulations, to understand how these peculiar objects form and evolve. In this talk, I will present our efforts to constrain UDG formation and evolutionary mechanisms via neutral hydrogen (HI) observations. I will also briefly discuss some of the ongoing comparisons between our sample and hydrodynamical simulations before highlighting planned paths forward with next-generation facilities.

Timbits, coffee, tea will be served in STI A before the colloquium.