HST NICMOS imaging of z∼2-3 radio-quiet quasars

Abstract

We will present the results of a NICMOS H-band imaging survey of a small sample of z∼2-3 radio-quiet quasars. We have resolved extension in at least four of five objects and find evidence for a wide range in the morphologies and magnitudes of these hosts. The host galaxy luminosities range from sub- L _∗ to about 4 L _∗, with most of the hosts having luminosities about L _∗. These host galaxies have magnitudes and sizes consistent with those of the Ly break galaxies at similar redshifts and at similar rest wavelengths, but are about a magnitude fainter than the comparable 6C radio galaxies. One residual host component is not centered on the quasar nucleus, and several have close companions (within ∼10 kpc), indications that these systems are possibly in some phase of a merger process.