Low Resolution Spectral Templates for AGNs and Galaxies

TL;DR

This paper introduces a new set of low resolution spectral energy distribution templates for AGNs and galaxies, derived from a large dataset, to improve classification and understanding of their properties in infrared surveys.

Contribution

The paper provides a novel set of empirical spectral templates for AGNs and galaxies, derived from extensive observational data, aiding in more accurate source classification and bias analysis.

Findings

Templates cover 0.03 to 30 microns wavelength range.

Templates form a non-negative basis of the color space.

Discussion of biases in AGN mid-IR color selection.

Abstract

We present a set of low resolution empirical SED templates for AGNs and galaxies in the wavelength range from 0.03 to 30 microns. These templates form a non-negative basis of the color space of such objects and have been derived from a combination 14448 galaxies and 5347 likely AGNs in the NDWFS Bootes field. We briefly describe how the templates are derived and discuss some applications of them. In particular, we discuss biases in commonly used AGN mid-IR color selection criteria and the expected distribution of sources in the current WISE satellite mission.