Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: We investigate the impact of the vortex state of ultralight dark matter (ULDM) on the dynamical friction acting on moving globular clusters. Comparing this force with that for the solitonic ground state, it is shown that the internal structure and rotation of the ULDM core strongly affect the orbital decay of globular clusters. In particular, co-directional rotation in a vortex state can lead to significant suppression of dynamic friction at certain distances where globular clusters and ULDM velocities match. Applying these findings to the Fornax dwarf galaxy, it is found that the Fornax timing problem is naturally alleviated.
Source: Universe
Language: English
Subfield: Nuclear and High Energy Physics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,930
OpenAlex ID: W7126259729