Massive star clusters in ongoing galaxy interactions -- clues to cluster formation

Abstract

We present HST WFPC2 observations, supplemented by ground-based H-alpha data, of the star-cluster populations in two pairs of interacting galaxies, selected for being in very different kinds of encounters seen at different stages. Dynamical information and n-body simulations provide the details of encounter geometry, mass ratio, and timing. In NGC 5752/4, we see a weak encounter well past closest approach, after about 2.5x10^8 years. The large spiral NGC 5754 has a normal population of disk clusters, while the companion NGC 5752 exhibits a rich population of luminous clusters with a flatter luminosity function. The strong, ongoing encounter in NGC 6621/2, seen about 10^8 years past closest approach between roughly equal-mass galaxies, has produced a rich population of luminous clusters, particularly young and bright in a small region between the nuclei. This region is dynamically interesting, so strongly perturbed that the rotation curve reverses sign. Cluster formation requires a threshold level of perturbation, with stage of the interaction less important. The location of the most active star formation in NGC 6621/2 draws attention to a possible role for the Toomre stability threshold in shaping star formation in interacting galaxies. The rich cluster populations in NGC 5752 and 6621 show that direct contact between gas-rich galaxy disks is not a requirement to form luminous clusters, and that they can be triggered by processes happening within a single galaxy disk (albeit triggered by external perturbations). (Abridged)