The Disk-Halo Connection in the Spiral Galaxy M101
Abstract
We propose to use FUSE to study the spatial structure of the hot halo of the nearby spiral galaxy M101. This is a large, face-on, Sc galaxy with bright OB associations distributed across its face, making it an ideal candidate for such a study. We will search for O VI absorption from hot gas at five positions in M101 ranging in radii from 6 to 23 kpc. These observations will allow us to study the large scale structure of a disk galaxy O VI halo for the first time. Our results can be directly compared to O VI measures in the hot halo of the Milky Way. In addition, the nearly face-on orientation of M101 will allow us to search for hot gas escaping from its disk, as is predicted by all galactic fountain models. A direct detection of venting from the disk would provide crucial support to models of galactic fountains. We have used far-UV images from the AstroUltraviolet Imaging Telescope to select five of the brightest star-forming regionsOB associations in M101 as background targets.
- Publication:
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FUSE Proposal
- Pub Date:
- 2003
- Bibcode:
- 2003fuse.prop.C070O
- Keywords:
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- FUSE Proposal ID #C070