The Data Behind Dark Matter: Exploring Galactic Rotation

Dark matter is estimated to make up ~84% of all normal/baryonic matter, but cannot be directly imaged. Despite the fact that dark observed yet, its influence on motion stars and gas in spiral galaxies have been detected. One way show are rotation curves plots velocity measurements how fast move a galaxy around center mass. According Newton's Law Gravitation, rotational an indication amount visible non-visible mass galaxy. Given measurable using photometry, can therefore estimated, offering insight into size distribution galaxies. In order gain greater appreciation research scientists' findings about their method should easily reproduced by any curious individual. Our interactive workshop excellent educational tool investigate impacts providing guide produce galactic curves. The Python-based notebooks set walk you through whole process producing online database (SPARC) allow learn each component three steps curve building plotting measured data, constructing for component, fitting total values.