Gemini/GMOS Observation of Extended Star Clusters in Dwarf Irregular Galaxy NGC 6822

  • Published : 2014.10.13

Abstract

on the observation with the Gemini Multi-Object Spectrograph on the Gemini-South 8.1 m telescope. The radial velocities of four ESCs do not display any sign of systematic motion, unlike the intermediate age carbon stars in NGC 6822. The ages and metallicities derived using the Lick indices show that the ESCs are old (>=8 Gyr) and metal poor ([Fe/H] <= -1.5). NGC 6822 is found to have both metal poor ($[Fe/H]{\approx}-2.0$) and metal rich ($[Fe/H]{\approx}-0.9$) star clusters within 15' (2 kpc) from the center, whereas only metal poor clusters are observed in the outer halo with r >= 20'(2.6 kpc). Based on the kinematics, old ages, and low metallicities of ESCs, we discuss the possible origin of ESCs and the formation of the outer halo of a small dwarf irregular galaxy NGC6822.

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