The high velocity hydrogen clouds considered as satellites of the galaxy

Abstract

The high-velocity hydrogen clouds at high latitudes have been widely discussed as material falling into the galactic disk from outside. The observed velocities show strong effects arising from the galactic rotation at the Sun's position. When this rotation is removed, the residual velocities are compatible with the clouds being in highly eccentric orbits around the Galaxy at distances of the order of 50 kpc. We propose new observations which may help to decide between galactic and extra-galactic interpretations.Asociación Argentina de Astronomí