Gemini staff contributions
On the Horizon
Figure 1 (left).
Various mechanical and optical assemblies and more are coming
together for Gemini’s high-resolution optical spectrograph
GHOST. Multi-Object Spectroscopy with FLAMINGOS-2 has
been commissioned, with the ability to change masks while the
instrument is installed on the telescope. Gemini will also soon
offer in shared risk mode two medium-band filters for splitting the
K-band with FLAMINGOS-2.
GHOST integral field unit
positioner frame.
Figure 2 (top right).
GHOST Slit Viewer
mechanical assembly.
Figure 3 (bottom right).
GHOST IFU positioner
mounted in its frame on
the tilt table.
Credits: All AAO
GHOST Taking Shape
Development of Gemini’s high-resolu-
tion optical spectrograph GHOST — a
joint effort by the Australian Astronomi-
cal Observatory, the National Research
Council Canada-Herzberg, and the Aus-
tralian National University — continues
to progress. As of the end of 2016, most
of the Cassegrain Unit’s mechanical
parts have been manufactured, received, test fitted (as shown in Figures 1–3),
and partially disassembled for anodizing. The Cassegrain Unit’s mechanical as-
sembly is close to being completed. Most of its optics have also been received,
and they have passed Acceptance Testing; optics integration will start at the end
of March, followed by electronics integration.
The final mechanical elements for the Guide Camera assembly, Slit Viewer as-
sembly, and Calibration Unit, have also been completed, and we are now ready
to integrate their optical elements and electronics. The Guide Camera assembly
and Calibration Unit are on target for Instrument Control Software integration
in mid-May.
— David Henderson
April 2017
GeminiFocus
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