Advances in instrumentation at the W. M. Keck Observatory

Abstract

In this paper we describe both recently completed instrumentation projects and our current development efforts in terms of their role in the strategic plan, the key science areas they address, and their performance as measured or predicted. Projects reaching completion in 2012 include MOSFIRE, a near IR multi-object spectrograph, a laser guide star adaptive optics facility on the Keck I telescope, and an upgrade to the guide camera for the HIRES instrument on Keck I. Projects in development include a new seeing limited integral field spectrograph for the visible wavelength range called the Keck Cosmic Web Imager (KCWI), an upgrade to the telescope control systems on both Keck telescopes, a near-IR tip/tilt sensor for the Keck I adaptive optics system, and a new grating for the OSIRIS integral field spectrograph.

Polarization modeling and predictions for DKIST part 3: focal ratio and thermal dependencies of spectral polarization fringes and optic retardance

“…The Keck telescope has a low resolution imaging spectrograph with a polarimetric unit (LRISp). [63][64][65][66][67][68][69][69][70][71][72][73] The 10 meter diameter primary mirror combined with this Cassegrain-mounted spectropolarimeter leads to high sensitivity on faint targets such as galaxies, stars or comets. We outline some of the initial design choices for the LRISp retarders including considerations of crystal thickness.…”

Creation of an instrument maintenance program at W. M. Keck Observatory

“…All the more noteworthy, is that this success has been achieved with the lowest operating cost to capital ratio of the 8m-10m class of telescopes currently in operation [1] . An extensive suite of instruments has been crucial to these achievements [2] . Despite the central role these instruments play in the success of the Observatory, adequate maintenance for them has posed a challenge.…”