Multi-wavelength Surveys for Distant Clusters

Abstract

Given the importance of clusters to the fields of cosmology and galaxy evolution, it is critical to understand how the cluster detection process affects (biases) ones scientific conclusions derived from a given cluster sample. I review the astrophysics, algorithms, and observational constraints that must be considered when attempting to assess cluster selection biases and their impact on the scientific constraints derived from multi-wavelength cluster surveys. In particular, one can more accurately quantify and understand the selection biases and assess cluster evolution when using joint optical/NIR/x-ray surveys than can be achieved when employing any single cluster survey.

12 pages, 4 figures, to appear in ASP Conference Series "Tracing Cosmic Evolution with Galaxy Clusters," Sesto 2001