Event Details

Dynamical studies of nearby galaxies have uncovered correlations between galaxy bulge properties and central black hole masses, hinting at physical connections between the growth of galaxies and supermassive black holes. Yet recent measurements have introduced surprises that challenge simple models of black hole and galaxy coevolution. The Black Hole Safari is a campaign to dramatically expand the sample of supermassive black holes in massive nearby galaxies, with enough diversity to test the influences of merger history and cosmic environment on black hole growth. Following recent discoveries of nearby black holes with 10^10 Msun, the Black Hole Safari will further explore the cosmic number density of these extreme objects. Dr. McConnell will describe some of the challenges for detecting the dynamical signature of a supermassive black hole and ideas for improving the accuracy of black hole mass measurements.