The mass profile of NGC 3377 from a Bayesian approach

Abstract

The mass profile for the moderately bright elliptical NGC 3377 is studied through an spherical Jeans analysis, combined with a Bayesian approach. The prior distributions are generated from dark matter simulations and observational constraints. The observational data set consist of Gemini/GMOS long-slit observations aligned with the major and minor axes of the galaxy, and are supplemented with data from the literature for the diffuse stellar component, globular clusters and planetary nebulae. Although the galaxy is assumed to alternatively reside in central and satellite haloes, the comparison with literature results prefer the latter option. Several options of constant anisotropy are considered, as well as both NFW and Einasto mass profiles. The analysis points to an intermediate mass halo, presenting a virial mass around $(3.6\pm0.6)\times 10^{11}\,{\rm M_{\odot}}$.