The extremely populated globular cluster system of the lenticular galaxy NGC 6861

ESCUDERO, CARLOS G.; FAIFER, FAVIO R.; BASSINO, LILIA P.; CALDERÓN, JUAN PABLO; CASO, JUAN PABLO

Toronto

Congreso; Future & Science of Gemini Observatory; 2015

Gemini Observatory

The study of globular cluster systems (GCSs) provides important clues about the star formation history and chemical enrichment of galaxies. Using the Gemini/GMOS instrument, we present a photometric study of the GCS associated to the galaxy NGC6861. This lenticular galaxy, located in low density environment, poses a challenge in understanding of their origin and evolution. Analysing colour-colour and color-magnitude diagramas of NGC6861, we found a large number of GC candidates, and estimates a total population of 3000+/-300 clusters. This translate in a high specific frequency of Sn~10. Besides the known blue and red subpopulations, the colour distribution shows signs of the possible existence of a third subpopulation with intermediate colours. This, together with non-concentric isophotes presented by the galaxy, could be interpreted as evidence of a past interaction or merger event.