Direct observations of the large-scale distribution of galaxies.
Abstract
Complete samples of galaxies in regions 30 and 60 in radius centered on the Coma cluster are presented. When grouped by redshift and position on the sky, virtually all the galaxies are shown to belong to groups or clusters. Truly isolated galaxies are nonexistent or very rare. Two types of galaxy groupings are found. The first contains a few galaxies in well-localized areas and shows a small redshift dispersion. Galaxies in such groups have a distinct tendency to show some emission lines. The second class of galaxy grouping is the major cluster. Associated with the Coma cluster, there appears to be an extended but highly asymmetrical shred of material which probably shows numerous subconcentrations. There is no evidence that the Coma cluster extends significantly beyond 30 as a symmetrical body. The overall density of intergalactic space in the Coma cluster foreground is estimated to be about 10-32 gm . Only about 1 percent of the space is occupied by groups of galaxies. Subject headings: galaxies: clusters of galaxies: redshifts
- Publication:
-
The Astrophysical Journal
- Pub Date:
- May 1976
- DOI:
- 10.1086/154325
- Bibcode:
- 1976ApJ...205..696T