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S. Arribas (STScI/IAC), T. Boeker (ESA/ESTEC), A. Bunker (Exeter), S. Charlot (IAP), D. Crampton (HIA), P. Ferruit (CRAL), M. Franx (Leiden), P. Jakobsen (ESA/ESTEC), R. Maiolino (Arcetri), G. de Marchi (ESA/ESTEC), H. Moseley, B. Rauscher (NASA/GSFC), M. Regan (STScI), H-W. Rix (MPIA), J. Valenti (STScI)
The Near Infrared Spectrograph (NIRSpec) will be equipped with an Integral Field Unit (IFU) which will allow the two-dimensional spectral characterization of astronomical objects with unprecedented depths, especially in the 2-5 micron wavelength range. In particular, NIRSpec-IFU observations of high-z galaxy populations will permit the capture of their often complex two-dimensional physical and kinematical structure, a prerequisite for carrying out a number of studies. These types of observations will also help to understand possible observational biases of large 1D (i.e. slit) surveys to be carried out in multi-object mode.
Here we describe the main characteristics of the NIRSpec-IFU, as well as its expected sensitivity and performance for observations of high-z galaxy populations. We also briefly discuss some key science programs to be carried out with this unit, like the determination of dynamical masses from 2D kinematics.
The author(s) of this abstract have provided an email address for comments about the abstract: arribas@stsci.edu
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Bulletin of the American Astronomical Society, 37 #4
© 2005. The American Astronomical Soceity.