Structure and evolution of galaxies
The main topic of our group revolves around the multi-wavelength observation of the evolutionary processes of galaxies.
We are especially interested in the diffuse warm ionized gas, investigating its structure in the disks and halos of galaxies, its ionization mechanisms, metal content, and kinematics.
We also analyse the properties and distribution of the closely linked hot phase of the gas in and around galaxies, using X-Ray images and spectra taken with the large satellite observatories of ESA and NASA. Radio continuum observations are being utilized to analyse the interplay of cosmic rays and the interstellar magnetic fields, and to map the structure of the magnetic field, especially in the halos of galaxies.
Other current projects focus on the nature and evolution of low surface brightness galaxies, star formation in the outer disks and halos of galaxies and the observation of the growth of galaxies by satellite accretion.
Current members:
Ralf-Jürgen Dettmar, Dominik Bomans, Eva Jütte, Arpad Miskolczi, Katharina Sendlinger, Yelena Stein, Ulrich Schilling