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T. Bogdanovic, J. Ge (PSU), C.E. Max (LLNL), N.W. Brandt (PSU)
We have obtained high spatial resolution (0.15 arcsec) spectra and images in the near-infrared (NIR) of the nuclear region in NGC 6240 galaxy at the Lick 3m telescope with adaptive optics. Results from our data analysis clearly show the dominant starburst population around the nuclear region detected in prominent molecular hydrogen emission. We have also detected UV-fluorescent lines in the region of the southern nucleus which may be contributed either from a large population of hot stars or a very energetic nuclear source. H2 narrow band imaging (2.12 \mum) shows the presence of a shock and also disturbed morphology of the nuclear region. NGC 6240 is a composite galaxy hosting a luminous starburst and an active galactic nucleus (AGN) obscured by gas and dust. It is at cosmological redshift z=0.0245 and is a convenient prototype of powerful high-redshift starburst galaxies with active nuclei.