Early evolution of galaxies and of large-scale structure from CMB experiments

TL;DR

Next-generation CMB experiments with high resolution will significantly advance understanding of early galaxy and large-scale structure evolution by detecting high-redshift lensed galaxies and proto-clusters, enabling detailed studies and validation of formation theories.

Contribution

The paper highlights the potential of upcoming CMB experiments to revolutionize the study of early galaxy evolution and large-scale structure formation through new observational capabilities.

Findings

Detection of large samples of strongly gravitationally lensed galaxies

Observation of proto-clusters up to high redshifts

Enhanced understanding of polarization properties of extragalactic sources

Abstract

Next generation CMB experiments with arcmin resolution will, for free, lay the foundations for a real breakthrough on the study of the early evolution of galaxies and galaxy clusters, thanks to the detection of large samples of strongly gravitationally lensed galaxies and of proto-clusters of dusty galaxies up to high redshifts. This has an enormous legacy value. High resolution follow-up of strongly lensed galaxies will allow the direct investigation of their structure and kinematics up to z~6, providing direct information on physical processes driving their evolution. Follow-up of proto-clusters will allow an observational validation of the formation history of the most massive dark matter halos up to z~4, well beyond the redshift range accessible via X-ray or SZ measurements. These experiments will also allow a giant leap forward in the determination of polarization properties of extragalactic sources, and will provide a complete census of cold dust available for star formation in the local universe.