Search for HI in Dwarf Spheroidal Galaxies

Abstract

After reviewing the HI content and distribution in extreme dwarf irregular (dIrr) and dwarf elliptical (dE) galaxies, previous searches for HI in dwarf spheroidal (dSph) galaxies will be discussed. I will report on the recent detections of HI probably associated with the Local Group (LG) dSph Sculptor and dIrr/dSph Phoenix, obtained with the ATCA, along with a similar detection in the Centaurus Group dSph CEN 41. Data obtained for Sculptor, using the Parkes Multibeam system, will also be presented and the advantage of the wide field for such nearby objects will be emphasised. Finally, the possible origin of the gas and the general problem of the missing ISM in dSph galaxies will be discussed.