JWST NIRCam Observations of the Globular Cluster Population of RXJ 2129.7+0005
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: We present an analysis of the globular cluster (GC) population in the galaxy cluster RXJ 2129.7+0005 (z = 0.234) based on JWST NIRCam imaging in three filters: F115W, F150W, and F200W. We use this material to provide a detailed look at the color–magnitude distribution of the GCs and their spatial distribution around the central giant galaxy. We identified 3160 GC candidates brighter than F150W = 29.5, and assessed photometric completeness through artificial star tests. We determined that the GCs follow a radial power-law distribution with an index of 1.58 ± 0.04, with the redder GCs exhibiting a slightly greater central concentration. Their spatial distribution is also highly elliptical, closely following the shape of the brightest cluster galaxy halo light.
Source: The Astrophysical Journal
Authors: Kaitlyn E. Keatley, William E. Harris
Language: English
Subfield: Astronomy and Astrophysics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $4,499
OpenAlex ID: W4413656069