Megaparsec-Scale Triggers for Star Formation: Clusters and Filaments of Galaxies in the Horologium-Reticulum Supercluster

TL;DR

This study investigates star formation in galaxies within the Horologium-Reticulum supercluster, revealing that star-forming activity is linked to megaparsec-scale filaments and cluster cores, influenced by merger interactions and environmental factors.

Contribution

It provides multi-wavelength observational evidence of star formation triggers in supercluster galaxies, emphasizing the role of large-scale structures and environmental interactions.

Findings

Star formation occurs along filament axes and near cluster cores.

Merger interactions in lower density regions likely trigger star formation.

Environmental effects like stripping influence star formation activity.

Abstract

Specific indications of star-formation are presented within cluster and filament galaxies that are members of the Horologium-Reticulum supercluster (HRS, z ~0.06). These indicators arise from multi-wavelength observations, primarily emission lines from optical spectroscopy and faint excess from radio continuum (1.4 GHz) photometry. HRS galaxies exhibiting current star formation are consistent with previous studies in that the star-forming populations organize around megaparsec-scale filament axes as well as near the cluster core. Therefore with support from optical photometry, mechanisms for triggering star formation in these galaxies are most likely due to merger interactions in lower density (and lower velocity) environments and possible bursts prior to stripping within the higher density (and higher velocity) environments.