Computer Science
Scientific paper
Jul 2004
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2004hst..prop10237f&link_type=abstract
HST Proposal ID #10237
Computer Science
Hst Proposal Id #10237 Agn/Quasars
Scientific paper
We propose to test the hypothesis that Low-Ionization Broad Absorption Line Quasars {LoBALs} represent a special stage of quasar evolution: young quasars in systems with strong interaction and star-formation. We will carry out high resolution imaging using ACS/WFC and NICMOS to measure the properties of the host galaxies of four LoBAL quasars at z = 0.9 - 2.0 that show strong overlapping FeII absorption troughs. The ACS imaging will be carried out in the passband with the strongest BAL absorption, acting as a natural coronagraph. This results in a reduction of quasar light by a factor of 15 - 26 in these passbands, providing arguably the best view of the host galaxies of luminous, high-redshift quasars. This method allows efficient detection and detailed modeling of the host galaxy morphology in the rest-frame ultraviolet, which is most sensitive to star formation and galaxy interaction. We will also use NICMOS imaging to measure the rest-frame light from the host galaxy to probe the old stellar populations where the host galaxy is likely to be brighter. It has been suggested that LoBALs might not be explained simply as an orientation effect but rather as an early phase of quasar evolution. Such a phase is typically associated with large amounts of dust and gas, and young galaxies with strong star formation. With HST observations, we will study the color and morphology of the FeLoBAL quasar host galaxies, and measure the age of their dominant stellar populations. We will also measure the density of close companions, and, in particular, look for signs of ongoing or recent mergers. These measurements will be compared to those of control samples of normal quasars at similar redshift. If LoBALs are indeed young systems, then their host galaxies are expected to show stronger interactions and merger activity, younger stellar ages, and regions with strong star formation. If the LoBAL host galaxies show no significant difference from those of normal quasars, it will support the view that LoBAL quasars are not a distinct population and that all quasars have BAL outflows along some lines of sight.
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