# Forecasting [C II] line-intensity mapping measurements between the end of reionization and the epoch of galaxy assembly

## TL;DR

This paper forecasts [C II] line-intensity mapping signals from redshift 4 to 8, combining simulations and empirical models, and assesses their detectability with upcoming instruments, highlighting the need for advanced surveys beyond reionization.

## Contribution

It integrates recent high-redshift [C II] simulations with empirical galaxy-halo models to predict auto power spectra and evaluate future observational prospects.

## Key findings

- [C II] should be detectable up to z~6 with upcoming surveys.
- Detecting [C II] beyond reionization requires more advanced survey capabilities.
- Predicted signals are consistent with current models and sensitivities.

## Abstract

We combine recent simulation work on the SFR--[C II] correlation at high redshift with empirical modeling of the galaxy--halo connection (via UniverseMachine) to forecast [C II] auto power spectra from $z\sim4$ to $z\sim8$. We compare these to sensitivities realistically expected from various instruments expected to come on-line in the next decade. If the predictions of our model are correct, [C II] should be detectable up to $z\sim6$ in this generation of surveys, but detecting [C II] past the end of reionization will require a generational leap in line-intensity survey capabilities.