Modelling JWST mid-infrared counts: excellent consistency with models derived for IRAS, ISO, and Spitzer

Abstract

ABSTRACT Models derived in 2009 to fit mid-infrared (8–24 micron) source counts from the IRAS, ISO, and Spitzer missions, provide an excellent fit to deep counts with JWST, demonstrating that the evolution of dusty star-forming galaxies is well understood. The evolution of dust in galaxies at high redshifts is discussed and a simple prescription is proposed to model this. This allows more realistic models for source-counts at submillimetre wavelength. A reasonable fit to 250, 500, 850, and 1100 micron counts is obtained. This paper therefore draws together the IRAS, ISO, Spitzer, Akari, Herschel, submillimetre ground-based, and JWST surveys into a single picture.