Galaxy clusters provide one of the most powerful tools to test cosmological models, and they deliver constraints that are complementary to those provided by the cosmic microwave background and distant supernovae. The extent to which clusters can be calibrated to serve as cosmological probes hinges on several unresolved issues about their physical nature. This project will study the internal structure and evolution of galaxy clusters, using Sunyaev-Zel'dovich effect, X-ray, and optical weak lensing data, and theoretical modeling. The resulting catalog of about 50 clusters with uniform quality, high-resolution data will be compared to state-of-the-art numerical simulations that incorporate non-gravitational physics. This will constrain and calibrate physical cluster structure and evolution models, quantify the impact of model uncertainties on high precision cosmology, and provide analysis tools and techniques for future use.
The research will be carried out primarily as thesis work for two students from under-represented groups, mentored by all of the senior researchers involved. Results will be incorporated into the Rose Center's continuing programs of public outreach and education at the American Museum of Natural History in New York.
