arXiv1996
In this paper we explore a quantitative and efficient method to constrain the halo properties of distant galaxy populations through ``galaxy--galaxy" lensing and show that the mean masses and sizes of halos can be estimated accurately, without excessive data requirements. Specifically, we propose a maximum-likelihood analysis which takes full account of the actual image ellipticities, positions and apparent magnitudes. We apply it to simulated observations, using the same model for the lensing galaxy population as in BBS, where the galaxy halos are described by isothermal spheres with velocity dispersion $σ$, truncated at a radius $s$. Both parameters are assumed to scale with the luminosity of the galaxy. The best fitting values are then determined with the maximum-likelihood analysis. We explore two different observing strategies, (a) taking deep images (e.g., with HST) on small fields, and (b) using shallower images on larger fields. We find that $σ_*$ can be determined to $\lesssim$10\% accuracy if a sample of about 5000 galaxies with measured ellipticities are available, down to $R\lesssim 23$. Alternatively, the same accuracy in the determination of $σ_*$ can be achieved from about ten, moderately deep WFPC2 fields, on which galaxy shapes can be measured to about $R\sim 25$ and for which ground-based images are available on which the WFPC2 fields are centered. Firm lower limits can be set on the radial extent of the halo, but the maximal halo extent is poorly constrained. We show that the likelihood approach can also be used to constrain other parameters of the galaxy population, such as the Tully-Fischer index, or the mean redshift of the galaxies as a function of apparent magnitude. Finally we show how multi-color information, constraining the redshift of individual galaxies, can dramatically