Abstract
Abstract We use distant blue horizontal branch stars with Galactocentric distances 16 < r < 48 kpc as kinematic tracers of the Milky Way dark halo. We model the tracer density as an oblate, power law embedded within a spherical power-law potential. Using a distribution function method, we estimate the overall power-law potential and the velocity anisotropy of the halo tracers. We measure the slope of the potential to be γ∼ 0.4, and the overall mass within 50 kpc is ∼4 × 1011 M⊙. The tracer velocity anisotropy is radially biased with β∼ 0.5, which is in good agreement with local solar neighbourhood studies. Our results provide an accurate outer circular velocity profile for the Milky Way and suggest a relatively high-concentration dark matter halo (cvir∼ 20).
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society: Letters
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
