Panel Review: Reconstruction Methods and the Value of $\beta$

Abstract

The closely related issues of (1) reconstructing density and velocity fields from redshift survey and distance indicator data and (2) determining cosmological parameters from such data sets are discussed. I focus on possible explanations for the discrepant values of $\beta \equiv {\Omega }^{0.6}/b$ resulting from analyses that employ various reconstruction methods. Although no firm conclusions are reached, possible routes towards resolution of these discrepancies are suggested by the discussion.

4 pages, 1 figure, Cosmic Flows Workshop, Victoria BC, July 1999, S. Courteau, M. Strauss, and J. Willick eds