A near-infrared imaging survey of nearby spiral galaxies

Abstract

K-band imaging was carried out on a sample of 57 spiral galaxies to map their stellar backbones, examine the underlying mass distribution across the arm and interarm regions, and perform bulge:disk decomposition. As within the broader aims of the project, which also use B, I, and Ha images, our results will be examined in the light of global parameters including Hubble stage, Elmegreen arm class, and quantity and distribution of recent massive star formation and dust.