Q1208+1011: Search for the Lensing Galaxy

We present a high-resolution spectrum of the high-redshift, lensed quasar Q1208+1101, obtained with the echellette spectrograph on the Multiple Mirror Telescope. We examine the new and published spectra and provide an updated list of high-confidence metal-line absorption systems at z = 1.1349, 2.8626, 2.9118, 2.9136, and 2.9149. Combining this with a simple model of the gravitational lens system allows us to constrain the possible lens redshifts. The high-redshift (z > 2.5) and low-redshift (z < 0.4) candidates can be ruled out with high confidence. The current spectra effectively probe about 40% of the redshift range in which the lens is expected. In that range, there is only one known metal-line absorption system, an Mg II absorber at z = 1.1349. We consider the possibility that this system is the lensing galaxy and discuss the implied parameters of the galaxy.