The z ~ 1.2 Galaxy Luminosity Function from The LCIR Survey

Abstract

We present results from the Las Campanas Infrared Survey, designed to identify a statistically significant sample of z>=1 galaxies using photometric redshift techniques. Here we summarize the design and strategies of the survey and present the first estimate of the galaxy luminosity function at z>=1 based on H-band selected galaxies identified in our survey. Results of number count studies and luminosity function measurements indicate that most early-type galaxies were already in place by z~1.2 with a modest space density evolution and a mild luminosity evolution over that expected from passive evolution.