ZEUS: The Redshift (z) and Early Universe Spectrometer

Cornell University, Ithaca NY

Investigators

Abstract

AST-0352855 -- Stacey, Cornell This project will study the history of star formation in the Universe from about 2 billion years after the big bang to the present by observing extinction-free tracers of star formation in dusty distant galaxies. The redshift (Z) and Early Universe Spectrometer (ZEUS) will be the most sensitive spectrometer for extragalactic point source spectroscopy in the submillimeter bands. The instrument will be used to investigate star formation in the early Universe by measuring redshifted far-infrared spectral lines; to measure redshifts of optically obscured distant sources; and to study the neutral interstellar medium in ultraluminous Infrared Astronomical Satellite galaxies. Undergraduate and graduate students will be involved in the design and development of the instrument, helping to train the next generation of "hands-on" scientists and engineers.