We present a novel approach to inspecting galaxy spectra using sound, via
their direct audio representation ('spectral audification'). We discuss the
potential of this as a complement to (or stand-in for) visual approaches. We
surveyed 58 respondents who use the audio representation alone to rate 30
optical galaxy spectra with strong emission lines. Across three tests, each
focusing on different quantities measured from the spectra (signal-to-noise
ratio, emission-line width, & flux ratios), we find that user ratings are well
correlated with measured quantities. This demonstrates that physical
information can be independently gleaned from listening to spectral
audifications. We note the importance of context when rating these
sonifications, where the order examples are heard can influence responses.
Finally, we adapt the method used in this promising pilot study to spectral
datacubes. We suggest that audification allows efficient exploration of
complex, spatially-resolved spectral data.Comment: 6 pages, 3 figures, accepted for publication in RASTI. Supplementary
data (including animated figure) available at
https://doi.org/10.25405/data.ncl.2281644