Future work

Simulations have expanded our knowledge of the role collisions play in galaxy evolution. They place the observational ``snapshots'' in a dynamic, evolutionary context.

The current generation of models has the resolution and physics necessary to explore the global dynamics of collisions, the triggering of starbursts, and the evolution of colliding galaxies.

But, can they make this?

Where do we go from here? How do we improve the models to address finer levels of detail?

Higher resolution is NOT the answer!

We need a better understanding of the physics of star formation and feedback before we can proceed.

How? Turn the problem around: What can galaxies tell us about the models?

Example: NGC 2442

Build a dynamical model of the galaxy (Warning: 2.4 Mb mpeg), apply different physical models for star formation and feedback. How well do we reproduce the observed properties of the galaxy?

Then, iterate on physics...

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