Program: GN-2022B-FT-106

Title:An Elusive Companion to the Perseus Dwarf Galaxy in the Local Group
PI:Clare Higgs
Co-I(s): Alan McConnachie

Abstract

Exploring galaxy formation at the smallest mass scales is a fascinating, but challenging task. We intend to investigate the tentative detection of a satellite dwarf companion to Perseus, a low mass isolated dwarf galaxy in the Local Group. After extensive qualitative and quantitative searches, this unique stellar over density was identified by eye in the Solo Survey. The feature shows a faint red giant branch and we request deeper observations with the intention of finding a horizontal branch. The detection of a horizontal branch would confirm this object and provide a foundation for follow up spectroscopy. Due to the extremely low mass and isolation of this dwarf and its potential satellite, the confirmation of this satellite dwarf would be a unique and insightful discovery, being the only example of its type.