High Resolution Observations of the Sunyaev-Zel'dovich Effect to Measure the Physics of Distant Clusters of Galaxies

University Of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia PA

Investigators

Abstract

The goal of this program is to measure the physics of distant clusters of galaxies with MUSTANG2, a 215-pixel bolometer camera observing at 3mm wavelength on the Green Bank Telescope. This will help in understanding of the evolution of structure in the early universe. Broader impacts include training of undergraduate graduate students in astronomical instrumentation, especially those from underrepresented groups. In addition, members of the team are actively involved in public outreach in the Philadelphia area including star parties, the Philadelphia science festival, and mentoring in low-performing schools. The Sunyaev-Zel'dovich effect, a diminution in the Microwave Background as it passes through clusters, will be observed at 9 arc-second angular resolution. Other telescopes making such measurements do not have this level of resolution. The authors plan to examine various aspects of cluster physics, including scaling relations, pressure profiles to large radii, and pressure differences in radio bubbles.