DOI

https://doi.org/10.48717/ykf8-p733

Project

EM153

Title

Resolving a gravitationally lensed dual back-hole system at z = 2.37

Abstract

(Resubmission) Galaxy formation models require major mergers to produce the levels of gas and star-formation needed for galaxy growth over cosmic time. During this process, the black holes within the two merging galaxies are expect to coalesce to form a supermassive black hole in the post-merger structure. However, the properties of these black holes and the effect they have on the merger process is not clear. We have recently discovered a dual AGN system at redshift 2.37 where both black holes are optically and radio active. Using the resolving power of gravitational lensing, we find that these two AGN appear not to have any evidence of a host galaxy, but are instead offset from the optical emission from the system. It is not clear whether the two black holes are in the process of merging with a third galaxy, or if the black holes have been kicked out of the galaxy during the merger phase. Here, we request 24 h of EVN and e-MERLIN imaging at 1.7 GHz to understand the AGN activity within the system, and determine the level of ongoing star-formation.