Projeto Observacional para 2007B - SO2007B-010

Autor: Marcio A.G. Maia
Instituição: ON
e-mail: maia@on.br

Co-autores:
Paulo S. Pellegrini
Luiz Nicolaci da Costa
Ronald Marzke
David Burstein

Título: The SOAR Ultracompact Dwarf Survey

Resumo: We began a search for compact and ultra compact dwarf (UCD) companions to massive elliptical galaxies using SOI (2007A). These UCds are difficult to distinguish from stars in ground-based imaging. Fortunately, UCD are distinguishable from stars by their u-g and i-z colors, but requires both excellent image quality and high UV transmission, making SOI uniquely suited to this program. In 2007B, we are requesting similar allocations from the NOAO and Brazilian TACs to continue this survey. The abundance, colors, and spatial distribution of the discovered UCDs will provide unique constraints on the role of large-scale environment in the formation of compact stellar systems.