Radio polarization observations of three southern galaxies.

Observations of polarized emission and consequently the investigation of magnetic fields in northern galaxies, have been conducted successfully for some time with, for example, the 100-m Effelsberg telescope of the Max-Planck-Institut-fuer Radioastronomie and the VLA. However, the opportunity to make corresponding studies in the southern hemisphere has only recently become possible. Therefore, a long-range project aimed at studying the morphology and dynamics of southern galaxies using the facilities of the Parkes and Molonglo radio telescopes, the Siding Spring optical facilities, and the Australia Telescope has been initiated. Preliminary results are presented from Parkes observations of three well known galaxies: NGC 253, NGC 4945, and M 83.