| Abstract: | The Cluster Lensing And Supernova survey with Hubble (CLASH) is a 524-orbit multi-cycle treasury program to observe 25 galaxy clusters each in 16 broadband filters with WFC3 and ACS. One of the most important drivers of this program is to accurately map the dark matter distributions of galaxy clusters and to interpret their cosmological implications. Gravitational lensing provides a direct probe of the total mass, regardless of its physical state or composition. Measuring strong lensing in cluster cores with Hubble, and weak lensing beyond the core and out to the virial radius with complementary ground-based telescopes, allows us to deduce the cluster mass and its distribution on large scales.
I present recent results from analyzing the cluster ensemble, including both relaxed and highly disturbed systems, giving clues into whether or not clusters are over-concentrated, uber-massive, and what they can teach us about the underlying cosmological model. |
