What is Intracluster Light (ICL)?
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The Short, Obvious Answer:
Stars OUTSIDE the galaxies in clusters.

From SDSS "Navigate" Tool


The Long, Interesting Answer:

  • The high galaxy and mass densities in clusters lead to strong tidal forces from interactions between galaxies, groups of galaxies, and the overall cluster potential.
  • These tidal forces rip the stars from their parent galaxies, leaving behind a diffuse, low surface brightness glow.
  • Because the ICL is a direct product of the dynamical history of the cluster and the cluster galaxies, we can use it as a "fossil record" of the cluster's evolution, gaining a window into the processes involved in both galaxy evolution and the assembly of structure in the universe.
  • ICL Formation Movie

    Stars are stripped from the galaxies through their numerous gravitational interactions, resulting in a transfer of luminosity from high to low surface brightness (i.e. galaxies to ICL).


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