The DENIS 2 Micron Survey and its Cosmological Applications

Near-infrared surveys have very promising cosmological applications. The DENIS 2 micron survey, currently in camera-testing, is scheduled to begin in early 1995, and to map the entire southern sky in the $I$, $J$, and $K^{\mathrm{\prime }}$ bands. The steps for the near-homogeneous extraction of $\sim {10}^5$ galaxies are outlined, some pitfalls are given, and the estimated limiting capabilities of the survey are presented. A preliminary $J$-band image illustrates these capabilities and some of the hidden pitfalls. The necessary spectroscopic followup is shown to be feasible on a reasonably short timescale.