The Future of Dwarf Galaxy Research: What Simulations will Predict?. Issue Volume 14:Issue S344(2019) (August 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sales, Laura V.
• Editors: McQuinn, Kristen B. W.; Stierwalt, Sabrina
• Is Part Of: Proceedings of the International Astronomical Union. Volume 14:Issue S344(2019)
• Page Start: 17
• Page End: 26
• Publication Date: 2018-08
• Subjects: galaxies: dwarf, -- galaxies: evolution, -- galaxies: formation, -- (cosmology:) dark matter, -- methods: numerical; Astronomy -- Congresses; Astronomy -- Periodicals; 520
• DOI: 10.1017/S1743921318007391
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1743-9213

Abstract

Abstract: We present a summary of the predictions from numerical simulations to our understanding of dwarf galaxies. It centers the discussion around the Λ Cold Dark Matter scenario (ΛCDM) but discusses also implications for alternative dark matter models. Four key predictions are identified: the abundance of dwarf galaxies, their dark matter content, their relation with environment and the existence of dwarf satellites orbiting dwarf field galaxies. We discuss tensions with observations and identify the most exciting predictions expected from simulations in the future, including i ) the existence of "dark galaxies" (dark matter halos without stars), ii ) the ability to resolve the structure (size, morphology, dark matter distribution) in dwarfs and iii ) the number of ultra-faint satellites around dwarf galaxies. All of these predictions shall inform future observations, not only the faintest galaxies to be discovered within the Local Volume but also distant dwarfs driving galaxy formation in the early universe.