Elemental Abundances in the Local Group: Tracing the Formation History of the Great Andromeda Galaxy

摘要: The Local Group (LG) is an environment accessible to detailed studies of galaxy formation, providing a complement the early universe. In particular, spectroscopy resolved stellar populations in LG provides kinematical and chemical information for individual stars that can be used infer history L★ galaxies like Milky Way (MW) Andromeda (M31). Gaia revolution MW, combined with from APOGEE other surveys, has enabled comprehensive observational MW's formation history. addition, comparisons simulations leveraged maximally utilize such data probe hierarchical assembly galaxies. Toward this goal, I have analyzed evolution dwarf assess their ability match observations. exquisite detail which MW been studied currently not achievable any galaxy. For reason, template our understanding formation. M31 only external we hope study level approaching MW. Studies recently taken on greater significance, given growing body evidence its differs substantially era limited about elemental abundances M31, developed technique apply spectral synthesis low-resolution order measure giant distant Through undertaking largest deep, spectroscopic survey date my collaborators, resulted first measurements inner halo disk homogeneous catalog M31. With foundational work, opened doors composition Now, begin ask--and answer--what differences imply knowledge broader At cusp next-generation facilities theoretical simulations, advance toward goal.