PHIBSS fibs : a SCUBA2 followup of z ~ 2.5, gas-rich, star forming galaxies

Abstract

Emissions from high redshift (i.e. z ~ 2.5), star forming galaxies provide a unique window into the state the universe at earlier epochs, and how these galaxies evolve over time. Accurate studies of these galaxies, however, require the ability to distinguish between different types of objects. The Institut de Radioastronomie Millimétrique Plateau de Bure High-z Blue Sequence Survey (Tacconi et al. 2010) aims to understand the gas content in massive, star forming galaxies. To date, H[alpha] and ultraviolet emission, along with CO(3-2) emission were used to derive star formation rates, and estimate gas masses respectively. This thesis focuses on the high redshift sample of these galaxies and uses far-infrared emission to learn more about the interstellar medium and star formation rates of these objects. Results show, however, that 23% of these galaxies are not what they seem. Two of the objects appear to be submillimetre galaxies, and two likely host active galactic nuclei.