A multiwavelength investigation of the merging galaxy HCG 95C

The compact group HCG 95 consists of four galaxies in which two of the members, HCG 95a and HCG 95c, are interacting. The morphology suggests the interaction is well evolved with the Northern tidal arm of HCG 95c overlapping the Eastern edge of HCG 95a. A linear bridge connecting the two galaxies hints at nuclear activity within HCG 95c. Our color indices indicate an older stellar population for both HCG 95a and HCG 95c, with the exception of the Northern tidal arm of HCG 95c. Long slit spectra of HCG 95a exhibits red-shifted H-alpha +[N II] and [S II] emission lines indicative of a LINER-type AGN. Spatial profiles indicate non-nuclear starburst activity triggered by tidal forces, while the nuclear spectrum indicates nonthermal activity. IUE observations of HCG 95c exhibit a featureless continuum with a transient outburst captured in one IUE observation which shows characteristic galactic emissions of red-shifted N V (1240 Å) and C IV (1550 Å). These results suggest that HCG 95c is in an early stage of merging with HCG 95a.