Abstract
GN-z11 is the highest redshift galaxy spectroscopically confirmed with the Hubble Space Telescope (HST). Previous measurements of the effective radius of GN-z11 utilized galfit, which is not optimized to measure structural parameters for such a faint, distant object. Using new software called forcepho, we derive a size from images in the F160W band obtained both from the complete CANDELS survey and additional midcycle observations in order to contribute to the knowledge base on the size evolution, size–luminosity, and size–mass relation of early galaxies. We find a half-light radius mean of 0.″036 ± 0.″006 corresponding to a physical size of 0.15 ± 0.025 kpc. This size, smaller than the point-spread function, is dramatically smaller than previous estimates with shallower HST data using galfit but consistent with recent measurements using forcepho on new JWST data. Such a small size suggests that GN-z11's high luminosity is dominated by an active galactic nucleus.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
