Abstract
We present the first attempt to select AGN using long-term NIR variability. By analysing the K-band light curves of all the galaxies in the UKIDSS Ultra Deep Survey, the deepest NIR survey over ~1 sq degree, we have isolated 393 variable AGN candidates. A comparison to other selection techniques shows that only half of the variable sources are also selected using either deep Chandra X-ray imaging or IRAC colour selection, suggesting that using NIR variability can locate AGN that are missed by more standard selection techniques. In particular, we find that long-term NIR variability identifies AGN at low luminosities and in host galaxies with low stellar masses, many of which appear relatively X-ray quiet.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 3026-3035 |
Number of pages | 10 |
Journal | Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society |
Volume | 493 |
Issue number | 2 |
Early online date | 11 Feb 2020 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 Apr 2020 |
Keywords / Materials (for Non-textual outputs)
- astro-ph.GA