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| Paper: |
The Luminosity Function of Globular Clusters as an Extragalactic Distance Indicator |
| Volume: |
167, Harmonizing Cosmic Distance Scales in a Post-Hipparcos Era |
| Page: |
204 |
| Authors: |
Tammann, G. A.; Sandage, A. |
| Abstract: |
The absolute magnitude M* of the peak of the globular cluster luminosity function (GCLF), approximated by a Gaussian, can be calibrated independently in the Galaxy and M 31 through RR Lyr stars and Cepheids, respectively. They yield, in perfect agreement, M*B = -6.93±0.08 and M*V = -7.62±0.08. Application of these values to the GCLFs in the Leo Group (n=2), the Virgo cluster (n=8), and the Coma cluster (n=2) gives distances which agree with the best determinations from other methods. However, the corresponding distance of the Fornax cluster (n=7) is significantly underestimated, and the distances of several field galaxies are inconsistent. A second parameter, like the width of the GCLF or the color of the peak, is apparently needed to control differences in the GC formation history. |
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