Witnessing the formation of a brightest cluster galaxy at z > 2

Abstract

We present deep observations taken with the HST advanced camera for surveys of the central massive galaxy in a forming cluster at z = 2.2. The galaxy hosting the powerful radio source MRC 1138-262 is associated with one of the most extensive merger systems known in the early universe. Our HST/ACS image shows many star-forming galaxies merging within a ∼200 kpc region that emits both diffuse line emission and continuum in the rest-frame UV. Because this galaxy lives in an overdense environment, it represents a rare view of a brightest cluster galaxy in formation at z > 2 which may serve as a testbed for predictions of massive cluster galaxy formation.