IRIS: a high-resolution midinfrared spectrometer for the upgraded 6.5-meter Multiple Mirror Telescope

Eric E. Bloemhof, George H. Rieke

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

In mid-1996, the Multiple Mirror Telescope (MMT) will be upgraded from its current configuration of six 1.8-meter primary mirrors to house a single 6.5-meter primary. To exploit the dramatic increase in collecting area and spatial resolution, as well as the high infrared quality of the observing site, we have designed a new spectrometer that will cover the thermal infrared (4 to 25 micrometer) at high spectral and spatial resolution. The design is based on the new generation of Si:As BIB detectors with 256 by 256 formats, which represent a substantial advance in array size at these wavelengths. The design consists entirely of reflecting optics, and is arranged to deliver diffraction-limited resolution longwards of 8 micrometers. A maximum spectral resolving power of R equals 15,000 is provided by an echelle grating. A lower resolution grating or a plane mirror for two-dimensional imaging may be substituted for the echelle.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
EditorsRobert E. Fischer, Warren J. Smith
Pages236-246
Number of pages11
StatePublished - 1995
EventCurrent Developments in Optical Design and Engineering V - San Diego, CA, USA
Duration: Jul 12 1995Jul 13 1995

Publication series

NameProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
Volume2540
ISSN (Print)0277-786X

Other

OtherCurrent Developments in Optical Design and Engineering V
CitySan Diego, CA, USA
Period7/12/957/13/95

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
  • Condensed Matter Physics
  • Computer Science Applications
  • Applied Mathematics
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

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