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# Proposal Information for 2002B-0264

PI: Patrick McCarthy, Carnegie Observatories, pmc2@ociw.edu
Address: 813 Santa Barbara St., Pasadena, CA 91101, USA

CoI: Karl Glazebrook, Johns Hopkins
CoI: Roberto Abraham, U. of Toronto
CoI: Hsiao-Wen Chen, MIT
CoI: Isobel Hook, Gemini Observatory/Oxford University
CoI: Inger Jorgensen, Gemini Observatory
CoI: David Crampton, DAO

Title: The Gemini Deep Deep Survey

Abstract: We propose to carry out a redshift survey in the 1 < z < 2 range to unprecedented depths with the new nod & shuffle'' capability that we are helping to develop for GMOS. We will use these data to determine the mass function of galaxies at the peak epoch of galaxy assembly. A 1 magnitude gain in sensitivity and ~ \times 3 gain in multiplexing for GMOS is enabled by the nod & shuffle'' micro-slit mode. Our survey will yield high spectroscopic completeness to I=24.5 with GMOS and I=23.5 with MARS, and will lead to true volume-limited samples of galaxies in the poorly explored redshift range 0.8 < z < 2.5. We will probe below M^\star at z=2 and 2 magnitudes below M^\star at z=0.8. Our program will increase the number of spectroscopically confirmed galaxies in the redshift range 1.3 < z < 2.3 by a factor of ten and improve the empirical luminosity functions in the 0.7 < z < 1 range by a factor of 3 - 5. Our 8-color optical/IR photometric redshift preselection allows for a survey at interesting redshifts that is mass, rather than star-formation rate, limited. This program will aid in the development of nod & shuffle into a standard option for all GMOS users in 2003A and beyond. \it We will make all of our spectra public through a web interface to assist others in preparing observing programs with GMOS and MARS.

National Optical Astronomy Observatory, 950 North Cherry Avenue, P.O. Box 26732, Tucson, Arizona 85726, Phone: (520) 318-8000, Fax: (520) 318-8360

 NOAO >   Observing Info >   Approved Programs >   2002B-0264