Tracing the evolution of nearby early-type galaxies in low density environments. The Ultraviolet view from GALEX

TL;DR

This study uses GALEX UV imaging to detect recent star formation in nearby early-type galaxies in low-density environments, revealing diverse triggering mechanisms and insights into galaxy evolution.

Contribution

It provides new evidence of star formation in early-type galaxies in low-density areas and explores the mechanisms and correlations related to galaxy evolution.

Findings

Detection of recent star formation in early-type galaxies

Star formation may be triggered by bars or minor accretion

Correlation between (FUV-NUV) color and Mg2 relates to galaxy downsizing

Abstract

We detected recent star formation in nearby early-type galaxies located in low density environments, with GALEX Ultraviolet (UV) imaging. Signatures of star formation may be present in the nucleus and in outer rings/arm like structures. Our study suggests that such star formation may be induced by different triggering mechanisms, such as the inner secular evolution driven by bars, and minor accretion phenomena. We investigate the nature of the (FUV-NUV) color vs. Mg2 correlation, and suggest that it relates to "downsizing" in galaxy formation.