Spatially Resolved Outflows in a Seyfert Galaxy at z = 2.39

Abstract

We present the first spatially resolved analysis of rest-frame optical and UV imaging and spectroscopy for a lensed galaxy at z = 2.39 hosting a Seyfert active galactic nucleus (AGN). Proximity to a natural guide star has enabled observations with high signal-to-noise ratio using Very Large Telescope SINFONI + adaptive optics (AO) of rest-frame optical diagnostic emission lines, which exhibit an underlying broad component with full width at half maximum ~ 700 km s−1 in both the Balmer and forbidden lines. Measured line ratios place the outflow robustly in the region of the ionization diagnostic diagrams associated with AGNs. This unique opportunity—combining gravitational lensing, AO guiding, redshift, and AGN activity—allows for a magnified view of two main tracers of the physical conditions and structure of the interstellar medium in a star-forming galaxy hosting a weak AGN at Cosmic Noon. By analyzing the spatial extent and morphology of the Lyα and dust-corrected Hα emission, disentangling the effects of star formation and AGN ionization on each tracer, and comparing the AGN-induced mass outflow rate to the host star formation rate, we find that the AGN does not significantly impact the star formation within its host galaxy.