Computational analysis reveals pervasive spatial clustering and warped vertical density waves in the Milky Way, indicating ongoing dynamical disequilibrium.
The Two-Point Correlation Function can be used to demonstrate the existence of substructure within a dataset, but typical implementations do not track the individual points which contribute to each specific substructure. In this paper, we develop an algorithm that traces a two-point correlation signal back to the contributions of each data point, allowing for structure to be visualized in novel ways. Using this tool, we find substantial evidence for pervasive spatial clustering in the Milky Way and reveal complex undulations that warp the previously discovered vertical density waves. We also explore the “clumping” of stars in the thick disk and near-halo regions and discuss the possibility of dating the structure.
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