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D. Norman (CTIO), Deep Lens Survey Team
Hierarchical models of galaxy evolution have been successful in explaining the observed properties of galaxies and clusters over a large range in redshift. Recent models also incorporated the formation and evolution of quasars in these models, by assuming that they are formed when massive dark matter halos merge and create black holes that are then fed by cool gas resulting in the quasar phenomenon.
Members of the Deep Lens Survey (DLS) team have discovered a unique sample of galaxy clusters through weak gravitational lensing shear mapping of background galaxies (Wittman et al. 2003). We have begun a survey to search for quasars associated with these clusters that will allow us to test the validity of assumptions made about quasar formation and evolution in these hierarchical models.
Additional near-IR images taken with the IR Side Port Imager (ISPI) on the CTIO Blanco 4m, obtained in 14 of these cluster fields, are used to select quasar candidates. These data are presented along with methods and preliminary results of this survey.
This work is supported, in part, through funding from the NSF Astronomy and Astrophysics Postdoctoral fellowship.
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Bulletin of the American Astronomical Society, 36 5
© 2004. The American Astronomical Society.