Which is more realiable: NED or SIMBAD?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the difference in luminosity values for the extragalactic body M33 listed in NED and SIMBAD databases. The difference in values is exactly 1, leading to a question of reliability between the two databases. However, upon further examination, it is discovered that the B band magnitude is the same in both databases. The question still remains about the preference between the two for other values such as Z or luminosity, which may vary depending on how the brightness is integrated over the surface of an extended object like M33.
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I'm doing some research on M33. NED lists the luminosity as 6.27. SIMBAD gives it as 5.27. First, it looks odd to me that the difference is exactly 1. Second, I've seen other differences comparing identical extragalactic bodies, so which database is more reliable?

Note: it appears I misread the band data. NED and SIMBAD show the same value for the B band magnitude. However, the question still remains: is there a preference between the two for Z or luminosity values?
 
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Depends. How do they integrate the brightness over the surface of an extended object, like M33? There are probably as many answers as there are databases.
 

FAQ: Which is more realiable: NED or SIMBAD?

What is NED and SIMBAD?

NED (NASA/IPAC Extragalactic Database) and SIMBAD (Set of Identifications, Measurements, and Bibliography for Astronomical Data) are two databases used in astronomy to store information about celestial objects such as stars, galaxies, and nebulae.

Which database is more reliable, NED or SIMBAD?

Both databases are highly reliable and widely used by astronomers. However, the reliability of the information in each database can vary depending on the source of the data and the quality of the data entry.

How do NED and SIMBAD differ?

NED focuses on extragalactic objects, while SIMBAD includes both extragalactic and galactic objects. NED also includes data from multiple surveys and catalogs, while SIMBAD primarily focuses on published literature.

Which database should I use for my research?

The choice of database depends on your research topic and the type of data you require. If you are studying extragalactic objects, NED may be a better option, while SIMBAD may be more suitable for galactic studies. It is also beneficial to cross-reference information from both databases for a more comprehensive analysis.

Are there any other databases similar to NED and SIMBAD?

Yes, there are other databases used in astronomy, such as the HyperLeda database for galaxy data and the VizieR database for astronomical catalog data. Each database has its own strengths and weaknesses, and it is important to choose the most appropriate one for your research.

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