2MASS 6X Extended Source Working Database: Deep Infrared Sky Survey

590 square degrees of targeted deep-sky observations were conducted by the 2MASS observatory using exposures six times longer than its main survey. This dataset contains the extended source working database, including a higher-reliability catalog subset, with major coverage of the Large and Small Magellanic Clouds. The data was produced by NASA and last updated in March 2026.

Use Cases

• Detect faint extended infrared sources based on the deeper ~1 magnitude sensitivity.
• Study galaxy properties in targeted regions like the Magellanic Clouds, M31, and galaxy clusters.
• Analyze star formation complexes based on observations of galactic targets.
• Compare source characteristics between the deep 6x survey and the main 2MASS all-sky release.

Strengths

• Observations probe approximately 1 magnitude deeper than the main 2MASS survey in unconfused regions.
• Covers approximately 590 square degrees of sky, with 383 deg² and 127 deg² dedicated to the Large and Small Magellanic Clouds respectively.
• Includes a catalog subset (cat='1') selected using SNR and quality criteria for higher reliability.

Limitations

• The 6x catalogs have not received the same level of scrutiny and validation as the 2MASS All-Sky Release Catalogs.
• Column-level documentation is absent; field semantics must be inferred after download.
• Row count is unknown, which may limit suitability assessment.

Provenance

Source

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

Collection Method

Targeted 'long exposure' freeze-frame scanning observations from the 2MASS observatory.

Time Range

Observations conducted during the final months of 2MASS operations.

Freshness

Last updated 2026-03-13 16:45:53.912105; freshness should be verified.

Geography

Approximately 590 deg² of sky in 30 targeted regions, including the Magellanic Clouds, Pleiades, M31, and the Lockman Hole.