Determine the mid-infrared spectral energy distributions of low-mass black holes

Characterize the mid-infrared spectral energy distributions of low-mass black holes in order to establish reliable WISE-based methods for identifying low-mass and intermediate-mass black-hole active galactic nuclei.

Background

The paper uses WISE mid-infrared colors as one component of its active galactic nucleus inventory, particularly to identify obscured or low-mass black holes. However, the authors note that the mid-infrared emission properties of low-mass black holes are not yet firmly established, limiting confidence in the interpretation and completeness of WISE-selected candidates.

References

Mid-IR selection holds promise for detecting obscured and/or low-mass black holes, albeit low-mass BHs' mid-IR spectral energy distributions (SEDs) are still uncertain.

— A Comprehensive AGN Inventory for the Dwarf-Dominated RESOLVE and ECO Surveys: Mass-Dependent AGN Types and Occupation Fractions  (2610.22115 - Polimera et al., 15 Oct 2026) in Section 1, Introduction