A Multi-Wavelength Calibration of Galaxy Clusters as Cosmological Probes

AST-0507161海曼星系团提供了测试宇宙学模型的最强大的工具之一，它们提供的约束与宇宙微波背景和遥远超新星提供的约束是互补的。星系团作为宇宙学探测器的校准程度取决于其物理性质的几个尚未解决的问题。该项目将利用Sunyaev-Zel'dovich效应、X射线和光学弱透镜数据以及理论建模来研究星系团的内部结构和演化。 由此产生的大约50个具有统一质量，高分辨率数据的星团目录将与最先进的结合非引力物理学的数值模拟进行比较。 这将约束和校准物理星系团结构和演化模型，量化模型不确定性对高精度宇宙学的影响，并提供供未来使用的分析工具和技术。该研究将主要作为来自代表性不足群体的两名学生的论文工作进行，由所有参与的高级研究人员指导。 研究结果将纳入玫瑰中心在纽约美国自然历史博物馆的公共宣传和教育项目。

AST-0507161HaimanGalaxy clusters provide one of the most powerful tools to test cosmological models, and they deliver constraints that are complementary to those provided by the cosmic microwave background and distant supernovae. The extent to which clusters can be calibrated to serve as cosmological probes hinges on several unresolved issues about their physical nature. This project will study the internal structure and evolution of galaxy clusters, using Sunyaev-Zel'dovich effect, X-ray, and optical weak lensing data, and theoretical modeling. The resulting catalog of about 50 clusters with uniform quality, high-resolution data will be compared to state-of-the-art numerical simulations that incorporate non-gravitational physics. This will constrain and calibrate physical cluster structure and evolution models, quantify the impact of model uncertainties on high precision cosmology, and provide analysis tools and techniques for future use.The research will be carried out primarily as thesis work for two students from under-represented groups, mentored by all of the senior researchers involved. Results will be incorporated into the Rose Center's continuing programs of public outreach and education at the American Museum of Natural History in New York.