Searching for galaxy clusters in the VST-KiDS Survey

TL;DR

This paper describes the initial methods and results of a galaxy cluster search in the KiDS survey, comparing candidate detections with existing catalogs and aiming to improve cluster completeness up to redshift 0.7.

Contribution

Introduces a new algorithm and selection criteria for galaxy cluster detection in the KiDS survey, with preliminary results and comparison to existing catalogs.

Findings

Preliminary cluster candidates identified over 7 sq. degrees.

Comparison shows potential for increased completeness up to z=0.7.

Ongoing analysis over larger survey area.

Abstract

We present the methods and first results of the search for galaxy clusters in the Kilo Degree Survey (KiDS). The adopted algorithm and the criterium for selecting the member galaxies are illustrated. Here we report the preliminary results obtained over a small area (7 sq. degrees), and the comparison of our cluster candidates with those found in the RedMapper and SZ Planck catalogues; the analysis to a larger area (148 sq. degrees) is currently in progress. By the KiDS cluster search, we expect to increase the completeness of the clusters catalogue to z = 0.6-0.7 compared to RedMapper.