Seminar: David Schiminovich - Columbia University, Tuesday Dec. 12th 2006

Title: From B&W to RGB to UV+IR: Tuning into the physics of galaxy
formation and evolution


Abstract: In this age of precision cosmology we are now well
positioned to understand the complex nature of galaxy formation.  I
will describe how recent observations in the space ultraviolet from
the Galaxy Evolution Explorer (GALEX) are being used to investigate
star formation and measure the physical properties of galaxies in the
local and distant universe.  These data, combined with the
breathtaking images and spectra from Spitzer, SDSS and other
observatories, are providing a rich and homogeneous multi-wavelength
picture that---for the first time---has allowed us to perform powerful
statistical tests of evolutionary scenarios and obtain new insight
into the physical mechanisms lurking beneath.