A - 300 MPC void of rich clusters of galaxies ?
Abstract
Kirshner et al. (1981) have reported an apparent absence of relatively bright galaxies over an enormous volume in the direction of Bootes. This result, if statistically significant, has important implications for theories of galaxy clustering and formation. In connection with the study of the correlation function of rich clusters of galaxies, Bahcall and Soneira (1982) have noticed a large area in the sky, extending approximately 100 deg across, which is completely void of nearby, but not distant, rich Abell clusters. This apparent absence of rich clusters may represent a physical void. If this interpretation is correct, the void extends approximately 150 Mpc/h along the line of sight. The sample studied is Abell's (1958) statistical sample of clusters of galaxies. The distribution of rich clusters is discussed, taking into account observed versus expected characteristics. Attention is also given to aspects of absorption and galaxy counts in the considered region.
- Publication:
-
The Astrophysical Journal
- Pub Date:
- November 1982
- DOI:
- 10.1086/160436
- Bibcode:
- 1982ApJ...262..419B
- Keywords:
-
- Astronomical Catalogs;
- Cosmology;
- Galactic Clusters;
- Galactic Evolution;
- Spatial Distribution;
- Statistical Correlation;
- Astronomical Maps;
- Data Correlation;
- Luminosity;
- Red Shift;
- Astrophysics