ISOCAM 7 micron deep survey of the Lockman Hole: A mid-infrared search for primeval galaxies
Sanders, D. B.; Kawara, K.; Taniguchi, Y.; Chambers, K. C.; Cowie, L. L.; Matsuhara, H.; Sato, Y.; Joseph, R.; Okuda, H.; Wynn-Williams, C. G.; Matsumoto, T.; Wakamatsu, K.; Desert, F. X.; Sofue, Y.
Japan, United States, Spain, France
Abstract
We present results of our 7 mu m deep survey program made with ISOCAM, the infrared camera of ISO (Infrared Space Observatory). We have found 15 sources above a 5 sigma_rms significance in a small selected area (3(') x 3(') ) in the Lockman HI hole. Among the 15 sources, 14 objects have also been observed in the near infrared (NIR: ~ 2 mu m). The majority of the 7 mu m sources (11 objects) have NIR counterparts most of which are considered to be galaxies with intermediate redshifts. It is, however, intriguing that two 7 mu m sources have no NIR counterpart. These objects may be heavily reddened populations which have not been detected by existing optical and NIR deep surveys. Based on observations with ISO, an ESA project with instruments funded by ESA Member States (especially the PI countries: France, Germany, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom) and with the participation of ISAS and NASA.