Lines of research: Formation & Evolution of Galaxies (FYEG)

Formation & Evolution of Galaxies (FYEG)

Galaxies are formed progressively through a complex combination of gas accretion, star formation and merger processes with other galaxies. The aim of the Galaxy Formation & Evolution research line is to unveil the physical mechanisms responsible for the most significant transformations in these objects. The research team that makes up the research line is strongly involved in the development of forefront instrumentation (EMIR, FRIDA, GTCAO, HARMONI, OSIRIS, WEAVE) and has an important role in the scientific exploitation and  development of international projects (SDSS, EUCLID, LSST) for the study of the formation and evolution of galaxies.

 
The line stands out for studies on the three-dimensional structure of the Milky Way (including its system of globular clusters and satellite galaxies), the characterisation of stellar populations and dynamics of nearby galaxies, the cycle of activity of supermassive black holes at the centres of  galaxies, the conditions of the interstellar medium in the first galaxies, and the role of dark matter in their evolution. Besides, thanks to the recently created simulations group, we also aim to relate observations with theory by means of numerical models over cosmological volumes and thus obtain predictions for future observations.
  • Publication
    Spectroscopic classification of a complete sample of astrometrically-selected quasar candidates using Gaia DR2
    Here we explore the efficiency and fidelity of a purely astrometric selection of quasars as point sources with zero proper motions in the Gaia data release 2...
  • Publication
    Spectroscopic variability of two Oe stars
    Context. The two Oe stars HD 45 314 and HD 60 848 have recently been found to exhibit very different X-ray properties: whilst HD 60 848 has an X-ray spectrum...
  • Publication
    Spectroscopy of the archetype colliding-wind binary WR 140 during the 2009 January periastron passage
    We present the results from the spectroscopic monitoring of WR 140 (WC7pd + O5.5fc) during its latest periastron passage in 2009 January. The observational...
  • Publication
    SPICA and the Chemical Evolution of Galaxies: The Rise of Metals and Dust
    The physical processes driving the chemical evolution of galaxies in the last 11Gyr cannot be understood without directly probing the dust-obscured phase of...
  • Publication
    Spin rates of V-type asteroids
    Context. Basaltic V-type asteroids play a crucial role in studies of Solar System evolution and planetesimal formation. Comprehensive studies of their physical...
  • Publication
    Spins and shapes of basaltic asteroids and the missing mantle problem
    Basaltic V-type asteroids are common in the inner part of the Main Asteroid Belt and much less abundant in the mid and outer parts. They are of scientific...
  • Project
    Spiral Galaxies: Evolution and Consequences
    Our small group is well known and respected internationally for our innovative and important work on various aspects of the structure and evolution of nearby...
  • Publication
    Spiral Inflow Feeding the Nuclear Starburst in M83, Observed in Hα Emission with the GHαFaS Fabry-Perot Interferometer
    We present observations of the nearby barred starburst galaxy M83 (NGC 5236), with the new Fabry-Perot interferometer GHαFaS mounted on the 4.2 m William...
  • Publication
    Spiral structure in barred galaxies. Observational constraints to spiral arm formation mechanisms
    A method, which we have developed for determining corotation radii, has allowed us to map in detail the radial resonant structures of barred spiral galaxies...