A High Resolution Study of Galactic Depolarization Features
Abstract
By looking at the Galaxy in radio wavelengths, we gain knowledge about the magnetic fields of our Galaxy and the properties of gases in the interstellar medium. One curious feature seen in images of polarized radiation from the plane of the Galaxy is dark depolarization structures, or canals. These structures, not present in total-intensity maps, take the form of dark filamentary or ring-like channels, and are seen throughout the Galaxy, primarily on arcminute scales. Much controversy exists as to the nature of these filaments; previous observations have not been conclusive due to their low resolution. Presented here will be an investigation and analysis of these depolarization features using recently obtained high-resolution data from Arecibo Observatory, providing an unparalleled view of these structures.
- Publication:
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Journal of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada
- Pub Date:
- August 2005
- Bibcode:
- 2005JRASC..99T.134B