A Milky Way mass model for isolated simulations

TL;DR

This paper introduces a realistic equilibrium model of a Milky Way-like galaxy supporting spiral patterns, designed for isolated galaxy simulations to improve star-formation and feedback studies.

Contribution

It provides a new, more realistic Milky Way mass model for isolated galaxy simulations, contrasting with previous models with lower disk mass.

Findings

Supports open, 2- and 3-arm spiral patterns

Available in three particle resolutions

Offers a more realistic alternative to previous models

Abstract

This paper presents an equilibrium model of a Milky Way-like spiral galaxy that supports open, mostly 2- and 3-arm spiral patterns but does not form a bar. It is suggested as a more realistic alternative model to that employed by the Agora collaboration; their model has a much lower disk mass and therefore forms only multi-arm spiral patterns. This improved model should enable simulations that test star-formation and feedback models in a more realistic isolated galaxy. Three versions of the same model having $2.1\times 10^5$, $2.1\times 10^6$, and $2.1\times 10^7$ particles are available for download.