The Hubble Ultra Deep Field image surveyed a section of sky 11 square arcminutes in area, containing about 10,000 galaxies and spanning 13 billion lightyears. Data from this image has been the basis for many studies including redshift surveys, galaxy composition studies, and galaxy distribution research. In this study, the size distribution of the galaxies in the HUFD is compared to two mathematical models of the universe's galaxy density: a static model and a constant expansion model. Both models suggest that the number density of galaxies depends on angular diameter to the negative fourth power. Future development of this model involves the inclusion of general relativity and refinements accounting for galaxy size distribution, the loss of faint galaxies, and other effects.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Terry-Welsh, Eleanor Rose

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-042810-152602

Advisor

• Dick, Frank A.

Year

• 2010

Date created

• 2010-04-28

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Physics

Rights statement

• In Copyright