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.