Near-infrared surface photometry of barred spiral galaxies

On the basis of a number of theoretical studies, it must be concluded that bar-like stellar structures are a preferred dynamical form in the process of galaxy formation and evolution. The objective of the observational research reported in this paper is to study by surface photometry parameters which describe the radial and azimuthal luminosity distributions of the bars of barred spiral galaxies. Such information is important for a comparison with theoretical models. The observational data are discussed, taking into account the photographic material, the reduction of data, and the decomposition of the radial luminosity profiles. Attention is also given to the structure of the bars, a comparison with the Miller and Smith models, and a discussion of the results. The considered study has provided near-infrared surface photometry for the stellar bars of a number of barrel spiral galaxies. 53 references