Stellar populations in the Lynx Super Cluster at redshift 1.26
Abstract
We propose to continue our investigation of stellar populations in rich galaxy clusters at z>1.2 by obtaining deep optical spectroscopy of 25 member galaxies in the cluster Lynx E (z=1.26). This proposal is part of our larger project aimed at constraining models for galaxy evolution in dense environments from observations of stellar populations in rich z=1.2-2 galaxy clusters. The main objective is to establish the star formation (SF) history over this epoch during which large changes in SF rates and galaxy structure are expected to take place in cluster galaxies. The proposed observations will reach S/N=20 for galaxies 2 mag fainter than the brightest cluster galaxy. The spectra will be used to determine SF rates, ages and metallicities as well as measure the velocity dispersions. Combining the spectroscopy with available HST/ACS imaging, we will test models for evolution of the Fundamental Plane and of galaxy size. The analysis will also utilize data from the Gemini/HST Cluster Galaxy Project, which covers rich clusters at z=0.2-1.0. The E2V DD CCDs in GMOS make possible this unprecedented probe of distant cluster galaxies, as no prior stellar population studies based on high S/N spectra exist for clusters at z>1.
- Publication:
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NOAO Proposal
- Pub Date:
- August 2013
- Bibcode:
- 2013noao.prop..542J