Abstract

We present near-infrared (NIR) spectra, deep J, H and K low-resolution images, and high-resolution images in J and Ks of the low-metallicity blue dwarf galaxy SBS 0335-052. These new NIR data, together with optical and mid-infrared data from the literature, are used to constrain the properties and the star formation history of the galaxy. The NIR spectral characteristics and broadband colors of this galaxy are those of an extremely young starburst. We find that the NIR emission is dominated by star formation occuring in clusters younger than 5 Myr; no optically hidden star formation is revealed in our data. We also find that a warm-dust component is necessary to explain the H - K color, and is consistent with the midinfrared spectral energy distribution. Finally, we quantify the possible contribution from an evolved stellar population.