Central K-band kinematics and line strength maps of NGC 1399

Abstract

In this paper we present for the first time high spatial resolution K-band maps of the central kinematical and near-infrared spectral properties of the giant cD galaxy in the Fornax cluster, NGC 1399. We confirm the presence of a central velocity dispersion dip within r ≤ 0.2 arcsec seen in previous long-slit studies. Our velocity dispersion maps give evidence of a non-symmetric structure in this central area by showing three σ peaks to the north-east, south-east and west of the galaxy centre. Additionally we measure near-IR line strength indices at unprecedented spatial resolution in NGC 1399. The most important features we observe in our 2-dimensional line strength maps are drops in Na I and CO (2-0) line strength in the nuclear region of the galaxy, coinciding spatially with the drop in σ. The observed line strength and velocity dispersion changes suggest a scenario where the centre of NGC 1399 harbours a dynamically cold subsystem with a distinct stellar population.

Based on observation collected at the ESO Paranal La Silla Observatory, Chile, during the Science Verification of SINFONI.