Measuring the rotation curve of galaxies

In summary, to make astrophysical measurements from open data, you should start by acquiring an understanding of the SPARC database, which contains a large body of data for measuring rotation speeds of galaxies. This can be done by reading literature by Stacy McGaugh and taking courses. You can also explore the vast body of theory on measuring astrophysical distance and spectral analysis by going through references and textbooks such as Binney & Tremaine and Bovy's Interactive Galaxies Textbook.
  • #1
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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  • #2
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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FAQ: Measuring the rotation curve of galaxies

What is a galaxy rotation curve?

A galaxy rotation curve is a plot of the orbital velocities of stars or gas in a galaxy as a function of their distance from the galaxy's center. It provides important information about the distribution of mass within the galaxy.

Why is measuring the rotation curve of galaxies important?

Measuring the rotation curve of galaxies is crucial for understanding the distribution of both visible and dark matter within galaxies. It helps in studying the dynamics and evolution of galaxies and provides evidence for the presence of dark matter.

How are galaxy rotation curves measured?

Galaxy rotation curves are typically measured using the Doppler shift of spectral lines from stars or gas within the galaxy. By observing the redshift and blueshift of these lines, astronomers can determine the velocities of objects at different distances from the galaxy's center.

What does a flat rotation curve indicate about a galaxy?

A flat rotation curve, where the orbital velocity remains constant or nearly constant with increasing distance from the galaxy's center, indicates the presence of a significant amount of dark matter. This is because the visible mass alone cannot account for the observed velocities at large distances.

What challenges are faced in measuring galaxy rotation curves?

Challenges in measuring galaxy rotation curves include the need for high-resolution observations, distinguishing between different components of the galaxy (such as stars, gas, and dust), and accounting for various factors like inclination and non-circular motions. Additionally, the presence of interstellar medium and external influences can complicate the measurements.

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