
The problem of the formation and evolution of field massive galaxies is briefly reviewed from an observational perspective. The motivations and the characteristics of the K20 survey are outlined. The redshift distribution of Ks<20 galaxies, the evolution of the rest-frame Ks-band luminosity function and luminosity density to z=1.5, the nature and the role of the red galaxy population are presented. Such results are compared with the predictions of models of galaxy evolution.
17 pages, invited review to appear in the proceedings of the JENAM 2002 Plenary Sessions - "The Unsolved Universe: Challenges for the Future"
Astrophysics (astro-ph), FOS: Physical sciences, Astrophysics
Astrophysics (astro-ph), FOS: Physical sciences, Astrophysics
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