Abstract

The LMC and SMC are the most massive satellite galaxies of the Milky Way. We now know that this star forming pair of galaxies is also the closest example of a recent galactic collision. The wealth of observational data from surveys like HST , Gaia and SDSS presents a novel opportunity to use the LMC and SMC as precision laboratories for galaxy dynamics and evolution. However, past tidal and hydrodynamics interactions between the LMC and SMC have left both galaxies in a high state of disequilibrium. Theoretical models of the LMC and SMC ’s’ disequilibrium are critically needed to properly interpret and analyze the observational data. In this talk, I will present new theoretical models for: (i) the strongly disturbed internal structure, kinematics and ISM properties of the LMC and SMC ; and (ii) the time evolution of the dark matter distribution of the combined LMC -SMC system. With upcoming, state-of-the-art simulations of the LMC -SMC-Milky Way interaction history, I will show how the LMC and SMC galaxies are promising future testbeds for ISM and dark matter physics.