The History of Star Forming Galaxies and their Environment as seen by Spitzer: A Review

TL;DR

This review discusses how Spitzer's advanced infrared observations have significantly enhanced our understanding of the history of star formation and galaxy evolution, impacting current models.

Contribution

It summarizes key findings from Spitzer surveys that have advanced knowledge of galaxy formation and the role of environment in star formation history.

Findings

Spitzer enabled deeper, wider IR surveys of galaxies.

Key results challenge existing galaxy formation models.

Insights into the evolution of star-forming galaxies and their environments.

Abstract

The advent of the Spitzer Space Telescope has revolutionized our understanding of the history of star formation and galaxy mass assembly in the Universe. The tremendous leap in sensitivity from previous mid-to-far IR missions has allowed Spitzer to perform deeper, and wider, surveys than previously possible at these wavelengths. In this brief review I highlight some of the key results to come out of these surveys, and the implications these have for current models of galaxy formation and evolution.