The dynamics of satellite galaxies.

Abstract

We use the positions and velocities of satellites of our galaxy and of other spiral galaxies to determine the radial mass profile of dark matter halos. We combine our measurement of the velocities of five remote Galactic satellites with published observations of the other Galactic satellites to obtain a complete sample of test particles. We then apply statistical techniques and timing arguments to deduce that the mass of the Galaxy is ≳ 1.3 x 10¹²M(⊙) for standard assumptions and that the halo extends beyond 100 kpc Galactocentric distance. We confirm our result by examining the dynamics of other Local Group galaxies. Subsequently, we expand our study to include nearby (1000 km s⁻¹ < ν(R) < 7000 km s⁻¹) Sb-Sc type galaxies. We use multiaperture spectrometers to conduct a survey for satellite galaxies and are able to double the sample of known satellite galaxies (satellites are defined to be at least eight times fainter than the primary) of isolated unbarred late-type spirals. The homogeneity of the primaries allows us to combine observations of satellites of various primaries and analyze the dynamical properties of the ensemble. The characteristics of this satellite sample (number, radial and azimuthal distribution, luminosity function, orbital characteristics, and contamination) are discussed. Finally, new models of the dynamics of satellite galaxies are developed that include the effects of the cosmological evolution of the halos and do not presume that halos are virialized. These models are used to constrain the mass distribution in which the satellite galaxies orbit. We conclude that only model halos with more than 10¹²M(⊙) within a galactocentric radius of 200 kpc are acceptable (90% confidence limit) for orbits of eccentricity < 0.9. The preferred models (60% confidence limit) are of halos with more than 1.6 x 10¹²M(⊙) within 200 kpc. Halos that formed in a universe with Ω = 1 also fall within the preferred range and have ∼ 3 x 10¹²M(⊙) within 200 kpc. In addition, we infer that the satellites’ orbital eccentricities are typically less than 0.9. These results, in conjunction with the results obtained for the halo of our galaxy, constitute convincing evidence for the existence of large (>200 kpc) and massive (> 10¹²M(⊙), M/L > 80) dark matter halos around isolated unbarred late-type spiral galaxies.