24 Micron Imaging of the z=2.38 Filament

Abstract

We present Spitzer 24 micron imaging of the central 25 X 15 arcmin-2 of the z=2.38 filament and its Lyman alpha-emitters. As the largest structure known above z=2, it represents an excellent opportunity to test the predictions of hierarchical CDM models at high density. We show the 24 micron detection rate for the Lyman alpha-emitters and the range of detected 24 micron fluxes. This field is also home to four members of a recently discovered new class of object, the high-redshift extended Lyman alpha ``blob''. These Lyman alpha blobs may directly show the formation of galaxies via the infall of intracluster gas or the outflow of enriched gas into the ICM, depending on their origin. The MIPS 24 micron imaging will help determine the nature of the energy source that powers these objects. Show more