Large Surveys of the Great Andromeda Galaxy

Aim and description

Recent large surveys of the Andromeda Galaxy provide the opportunity to use M31 and its satellites to investigate a diverse range of topics in galaxy formation and evolution.  The survey data provide the opportunity to enhance our general understanding of disk and halo formation and star formation, as well as our understanding of M31’s merger history, dark matter halo, and satellite population within the broader context of nearby galaxies (including the Milky Way).  However, significant progress on these fronts requires concentrated interaction and collaboration between disparate groups.

The primary goal of this workshop is to bring together members of the recent large M31 surveys (PHAT, PAndAS, and SPLASH), experts in galaxy formation theory, as well as Milky Way and nearby galaxy experts.  It will use the collaborative environment of the Lorentz Centre to encourage joint exploration of these large and rich datasets and sparking new collaborations.   A relatively small number of short, targeted morning talks will be included in the program in order to spark substantial discussion. The remainder of the workshop will be afternoon breakout sessions based on each morning’s discussion, as well as a free-form “hack” day to perform proof-of-concept collaborative efforts between groups.