Creating Mock Maps for Line Intensity Mapping Experiments

Abstract

Line Intensity Mapping (LIM) experiments are innovative techniques for studying structures at high redshift. They allow us to uncover previously inaccessible astrophysical data by making 3D tomographic maps with 2D spatial line intensity fluctuations. As efforts like COMAP progress in detecting carbon monoxide (CO) and other spectral lines, generating precise mock maps becomes crucial for data analysis, prediction of future observations, and development of new statistical methods for LIM analysis. These mock maps are generated by interpolating line luminosities across the specified dark matter halo distribution, using response functions that are defined by the relationship between the line luminosities and both observable and derived properties of simulated galaxies. In my presentation, I will elucidate the statistical relationship between the calculated line luminosity and inherent/derived observables for simulated FIRE (Feedback In Realistic Environment) galaxies, focusing on CO(1-0) to CO(8-7) lines at four different redshift regimes: z=0, 1, 2, and 3. I will examine the correlations between CO emission and galactic properties at different redshifts and explore the potential causal relationships they may suggest as well as how they can define essential response functions for creating mock maps.