FSVS Catalog of 598 Galaxy Clusters and Rich Groups with Redshift Estimates

The Faint Sky Variability Survey Catalog contains a sample of 598 galaxy clusters and rich groups identified from the FSVS data. The clusters were discovered using an automated, semi-parametric technique based on maximum likelihood applied to Voronoi tessellation and enhanced by color discrimination. The table was created by NASA's HEASARC in July 2006 based on the original author's data.

Use Cases

• Study galaxy cluster evolution based on a wide range of richness and redshift estimates.
• Investigate large-scale structure using a sample with a density of ~28 clusters per square degree.
• Complement X-ray selected cluster samples with optically-selected, intermediate-redshift clusters.
• Plan follow-up observation programs using FSVS fields accessible for observation year-round.

Strengths

• Contains 598 galaxy clusters and rich groups, a substantial sample for optical studies.
• Spans a wide redshift range of 0.05 < z < 0.9 with a mean of 0.345.
• Includes over 100 clusters with z > 0.6, contributing to intermediate-redshift research.
• Cluster redshifts have an assessed uncertainty of sigma ~ 0.03, assuming a red sequence.

Limitations

• Column-level documentation is absent; field semantics must be inferred after download.
• Row count is unknown, which may limit suitability assessment.
• The original source table is no longer available at the author's provided link.

Provenance

Source

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA HEASARC), based on data from the Faint Sky Variability Survey.

Collection Method

Clusters identified using a fully automated, semi-parametric technique based on maximum likelihood applied to Voronoi tessellation, enhanced by color discrimination.

Time Range

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Freshness

Last updated 2026-03-13 17:32:25.544010; freshness should be verified.

Geography

Covers FSVS survey fields, which are accessible for observation throughout the year.