The impact of encounters on the members of Local Group Analogs. A view from GALEX

TL;DR

This study uses GALEX UV imaging to analyze the effects of interactions on galaxies in the Local Group Analog LGG 225, revealing active star formation and morphological disturbances indicative of ongoing evolutionary processes.

Contribution

It provides new UV observational evidence of interaction-driven star formation and morphological changes in LGG 225, a Local Group Analog, highlighting its more active evolutionary state.

Findings

Many group members show signs of recent or ongoing interactions.

UV-bright regions indicate intense star formation with dust extinction.

LGG 225 is in a more active evolutionary phase compared to the Local Group.

Abstract

The bright galaxy population of the Local Group Analog (LGA) LGG 225 has been imaged with the Galaxy Evolution Explorer (GALEX) through its Far- and Near-UV wavebands. A significant fraction of the group members appear to underwent recent/on-going interaction episodes that strongly disturbed overall galaxy morphology. UV-bright regions, sites of intense star formation activity accompanied by intense dust extinction, mark the galaxy outskirts forming irregular structures and tails. Compared to the Local Group, LGG 225 seems thus to be experiencing a more intense and active evolutionary phase.