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The Red Sequence Cluster Survey 2
- The Red Sequence Cluster Survey 2 (RCS2) is the largest systematic
search for galaxy clusters ever undertaken. Using the square-degree
imager, MegaCam, on the CFHT, we are imaging nearly 1000 square degrees
of sky in three filters (g', r', z') in order to
find clusters out to z~1. The project uses the ubiquitous red-sequence
of cluster early-type galaxies to identify clusters with a well-understood
selection function. This technique was used with great success in the
90 square degree R and z survey, RCS1.
- The enormous catalogue of galaxy clusters generated will be used to
study both cosmology and cluster evolution. A survey of this size and
quality is required to probe dark energy and measure the parameter,
w, describing the equation of state of the Universe. A large
number of follow-up projects aimed at studying a core sample of clusters
at many different wavelengths, with a variety of cutting-edge instrumentation,
will provide calibrations for the whole cluster sample. The different
techniques used will provide essential independent tests of the accuracy
of the estimators, and examine important cluster physics.
- The RCS2 collaboration comprises an international team of over 20
members from Canada, USA, Taiwan and Chile.
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