The dynamics of Andromeda's dwarf galaxies and stellar streams

TL;DR

This paper analyzes the structural, dynamical, and chemical properties of Andromeda's dwarf galaxies and stellar streams, providing insights into their evolution and the galaxy's mass profile based on a comprehensive stellar data set.

Contribution

It offers new observational insights into Andromeda's dwarf galaxies and stellar streams, and discusses their implications for galaxy evolution and mass distribution.

Findings

No difference in evolutionary histories of satellites on and off M31's plane

Refined understanding of M31's mass profile through the Giant Southern Stream

Detailed characterization of Andromeda's stellar substructures

Abstract

As part of the Z-PAndAS Keck II DEIMOS survey of resolved stars in our neighboring galaxy, Andromeda (M31), we have built up a unique data set of measured velocities and chemistries for thousands of stars in the Andromeda stellar halo, particularly probing its rich and complex substructure. In this contribution, we will discuss the structural, dynamical and chemical properties of Andromeda's dwarf spheroidal galaxies, and how there is no observational evidence for a difference in the evolutionary histories of those found on and off M31's vast plane of satellites. We will also discuss a possible extension to the most significant merger event in M31 - the Giant Southern Stream - and how we can use this feature to refine our understanding of M31's mass profile, and its complex evolution.