ASKAP-EMU: Overcoming the challenges of wide deep continuum surveys

Abstract

Next-generation continuum surveys will be strongly constrained by dynamic range and confusion. For example, the ASKAP-EMU (Evolutionary Map of the Universe) project will map 75% of the sky at 20cm to a sensitivity of 10 microJy - some 45 times deeper than NVSS, and is likely to be challenged by issues of confusion, cross-identification, and dynamic range. Here we describe the survey, the issues, and the steps that can be taken to overcome them. We also explore ways of using multiwavelength data to penetrate well beyond the classical confusion limit, using multiwavelength data, and an innovative outreach approach to cross-identification.