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M.N. Fanelli, H. Appleby (UNT), P.M. Marcum (TCU)
We present early results in a program to explore the structural properties and evolutionary history of luminous blue compact galaxies (LBCGs). These are intrinsically bright [M(B) < -18.5], blue [-0.3 < (B-V) < 0.6], IR-luminous systems experiencing strong to extreme massive star formation episodes. Due to the scale of this star formation, LBCGs are ideal local analogs to the early evolutionary phases of most galaxies. We have compiled a sample of local LBCGs using the Markarian and KISO surveys of UV-excess galaxies. Samples selected using optical colors will include both active star-forming and post-burst systems.
The current program consists of broad-band and emission-line optical imaging, combined with FIR and radio data obtained from the literature. In this report we derive the star formation rates for our primary sample based on their luminosities as measured by IRAS. For the ~ 30 objects for which we have obtained optical imaging data, we find a SFR ranging from 1.8 to 47 M(sun) yr-1, with a mean value of ~ 12.4. We compare the derived SFRs with values determine for normal and other starburst systems. We also discuss premlimary results from the imaging campaign.
Support for this project has been provided by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, through its Advanced Research Program.
The author(s) of this abstract have provided an email address for comments about the abstract: fanelli@unt.edu
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Bulletin of the American Astronomical Society, 36 #2
© YEAR. The American Astronomical Soceity.