Spatial segregation impact on star formation in nearby dwarf spheroidal galaxies

Abstract

Using our Hubble Space Telescope/Advanced Camera for Surveys (HST/ACS) observations of the recently found isolated dwarf spheroidal (dSph) galaxies, we homogeneously measured their star formation histories (SFHs). We determined SF rate as a function of time, as well as age and metallicity of the stellar populations. All objects demonstrate complex SFH, with a significant portion of stars formed 10-13 Gyr ago. Nevertheless, stars of middle ages (1-8 Gyr) are presented. In order to understand how the SF parameters influence the evolution of dSphs, we also studied a sample of nearest dSphs in different environment: isolated (d < 2 Mpc); beyond the Local Group (LG) virial radius (but within the LG zero-velocity sphere); and the satellites of M 31 located within the virial zone (300 kpc). Using archival HST/ACS observations, we measured their SFHs. A comparative analysis of the parameters obtained allow us to distinguish a possible effect of the spatial segregation on the dSphs evolution scenario.