First multi-redshift limits on post-Epoch of Reionization (post-EoR) 21 cm signal from z = 1.96 - 3.58 using uGMRT

TL;DR

This paper presents the first upper limits on the post-reionization 21 cm signal at redshifts 1.96 to 3.58 using uGMRT, providing new constraints on the large-scale structure and galaxy evolution models.

Contribution

It introduces the first constraints on the 21 cm power spectrum in the redshift range 1.96-3.58, using uGMRT observations and foreground avoidance techniques.

Findings

Most stringent upper limits on 21 cm power spectrum at specified redshifts.

Constraints on the product of neutral hydrogen density and bias, [Omega_HI*b_HI].

First limits on 21 cm power spectra in this redshift range.

Abstract

Measurement of fluctuations in diffuse HI 21 cm background radiation from the post-reionization epoch (z < 6) is a promising avenue to probe the large-scale structure of the Universe and understand the evolution of galaxies. We observe the European Large-Area ISO Survey-North 1 (ELAIS-N1) field at 300-500 MHz using the upgraded Giant Meterwave Radio Telescope (uGMRT) and employ the 'foreground avoidance' technique to estimate the HI 21 cm power spectrum in the redshift range z = 1.96-3.58. Given the possible systematics that may remain in the data, we find the most stringent upper limits on the spherically averaged 21 cm power spectra at k~1.0 Mpc$^{-1}$ are (58.87 mK)$^2$, (61.49 mK)$^2$, (60.89 mK)$^2$, (105.85 mK)$^2$ at z = 1.96,2.19,2.62 and 3.58, respectively. We use this to constrain the product of neutral HI mass density (Omega_HI) and HI bias (b_HI) to the underlying dark matter density field, [Omega_HI*b_HI], as 0.09,0.11,0.12,0.24 at z=1.96,2.19,2.62,3.58, respectively. To the best of our knowledge these are the first limits on the HI 21 cm power spectra at the redshift range z = 1.96 - 3.58 and would play a significant role to constrain the models of galaxy formation and evolution.