Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

Date of Degree

9-2025

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Program

Astrophysics

Advisor

Ariyeh Maller

Advisor

Viraj Pandya

Subject Categories

Astrophysics and Astronomy | External Galaxies | Physical Processes | Stars, Interstellar Medium and the Galaxy

Keywords

galaxy formation, galaxy evolution, satellite galaxies, the Milky Way

Abstract

The evolution of satellites galaxies is an unsolved problem in galaxy formation. Recent observations such as the SAGA and ELVES surveys find tension in HI contents and star formation of satellites around their central host galaxies when compared to our own local environment, the Milky Way. These processes are potentially highly influenced by the host's circumgalactic medium (CGM), and to constrain these cases requires accurate and fast modeling of satellites-host interactions. In this work, we present our methodology for evolving z = 0 surviving satellites alongside their central galaxy in sapphire, a CGM regulator co-evolution model of galaxy formation. We have added CGM and interstellar medium (ISM) ram pressure stripping, as well as satellite pre-enrichment via their host galaxy. Utilizing the Symphony zoom-in dark matter halo suite, we are able to reproduce observations such as the cumulative satellite stellar mass function and the stellar mass-metallicity relation of the local Milky Way satellites from the ultrafaints to the SMC and LMC. Our added framework is highly modular and sets the stage for multi-scale modeling and fast, robust Bayesian inference of satellite-related physical parameters.

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